Dog Toxicity Guide: Keeping Your Dog Safe

Protecting Your Dog from Toxic Substances

Many everyday items can be dangerous to dogs. Here’s your safety guide:

Foods Toxic to Dogs:

• Chocolate: Contains theobromine, causes heart problems and seizures
• Grapes & Raisins: Can cause kidney failure
• Onions & Garlic: Damage red blood cells, cause anemia
• Xylitol: Artificial sweetener, causes liver failure
• Avocado: Contains persin, causes vomiting and diarrhea
• Macadamia Nuts: Causes weakness, vomiting, tremors
• Alcohol: Even small amounts can be fatal
• Caffeine: Causes rapid heart rate, seizures

Household Plants:

• Sago Palm: All parts toxic, causes liver failure
• Azaleas & Rhododendrons: Causes vomiting, diarrhea, coma
• Tulips & Daffodils: Bulbs are most toxic
• Lilies: Causes kidney failure in cats, gastrointestinal issues in dogs
• Oleander: Extremely toxic, affects heart

Medications:

• Ibuprofen: Causes kidney and liver damage
• Acetaminophen: Causes liver damage
• Cold Medications: Many contain toxic ingredients
• Prescription Medications: Never give human medications
• Vitamins: Iron supplements can be toxic

Household Hazards:

• Antifreeze: Sweet taste attracts dogs, causes kidney failure
• Cleaning Products: Bleach, ammonia, and other chemicals
• Pest Control: Rat poison, snail bait, insecticides
• Fertilizers: Can cause gastrointestinal issues
• Batteries: Can cause chemical burns

Emergency Signs:

Contact your vet immediately if you notice:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures or tremors
• Lethargy or weakness
• Loss of coordination
• Excessive drooling

Prevention Strategies:

• Keep all medications in secure containers
• Use pet-safe cleaning products
• Research plants before planting
• Keep toxic foods out of reach
• Secure trash cans and compost bins
• Have emergency vet number ready