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5 Items In Your Kitchen That Are Poisonous To Dogs_Header

5 Items In Your Kitchen That Are Poisonous To Dogs

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5 Items In Your Kitchen That Are Poisonous To Dogs_Header

5 Items In Your Kitchen That Are Poisonous To Dogs

When sitting down to write about items in your kitchen that are poisonous to dogs, I stood in the middle of mine and took an inventory. There are a lot of things that are found in our kitchens that are poisonous but how often do you really have cherries in your kitchen? They’re probably not a staple. Here are 5 items in your kitchen that are poisonous to dogs that I keep on hand.

Minced Garlic

Amazon.com : Spice World, Minced Garlic, 4.5 Oz : Grocery & Gourmet Food

It’s easier than pressing my own garlic but extremely toxic to dogs. It does take more than a single piece of minced garlic to be toxic but studies have found that 15 to 30g of garlic per 1 kilogram (that’s a little over 2lbs) of body weight is enough to be toxic. Garlic toxicity can cause vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration. On a more extreme end it can cause damage to red blood cells, resulting in hemolytic anemia.

Bowl of Chocolate Candy

Confectionery, Chocolate, Dark, Whole Milk, Cute

Reece’s Cups are delicious to humans but not to dogs. Chocolate in large amounts can be deadly to pets. Some chocolate candy that contains peanut butter may also contain xylitol which is equally as deadly. The darker the chocolate the worse it is for your pets to have. Dark chocolate contains higher levels of theobromine which dogs cannot metabolize effectively.

Alcohol

Wines, Glasses, Wine Glasses, Stemware, Glassware

You may have some bottles of alcohol in your kitchen if you enjoy a drink every now and then, or if you cook with it. Grapes are also extremely toxic to dogs. Even one grape can be enough to be fatal by potentially causing sudden kidney failure. While we don’t know exactly why grapes (and raisins) are so toxic to dogs they should never be given to a dog.

Caffeinated Drinks

Coca-Cola, Water, Ice, Soda

This isn’t just limited to soda but coffee and caffeinated teas. You’d be shocked about how many things actually contain caffeine. If you ever spill anything that contains caffeine make sure to clean it up right away. Bonus Fact: Cleaning up soda ASAP is important to help prevent ants. Ants are not only annoying but they can carry a variety of diseases with them and they can get into tiny spaces – like dog food containers.

Medications

Pills, Medication, Tablets, Bottle, Drugs, Drugstore

I keep my medications in a medicine cabinet in the kitchen. Why do I keep medications in there? So they’re in a centralized source that doesn’t require having to get them from the bathroom. It’s very handy when you need a Tylenol and somebody is taking an hour-long shower. Highly recommend. If you too have a medicine cabinet in your kitchen make sure it’s one of your higher cabinets. Keep medications in their original packaging. Original packaging is usually child-proof and subsequently slightly more dog proof. If you can’t keep it in its original packaging put it in a secure container on a higher shelf.

Items in your Kitchen that are Poisonous to Dogs Infographic

 

What to do if you suspect your pet has gotten into something they shouldn’t.

Seek emergency veterinary care immediately if you suspect your pet has been poisoned or if you have seen them getting into something that they shouldn’t. It’s always better to take them to the vet and be told that they didn’t ingest anything rather than waiting and it being too late.

What of these common kitchen items do you have in your kitchen? Are there any big ones we missed? Let us know in the comments. We’d love to hear your thoughts.

10 Household Items That Are Poisonous To Pets

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10 Household Items That Are Poisonous To Pets

It’s one of every pet parents worst nightmares. Your pet has gotten into something they shouldn’t have and it might be poisonous. So which household items are toxic to pets? The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) maintains a comprehensive online list but here are some items you probably have around your house.

1. Medications

One of the top household items that are poisonous to pets. Make sure to keep medications in an out-of-reach place and locked up to avoid curious pets (especially cats) getting into cabinets. If you can, keep the pills in their original container with a child safety lock.

2. Cleaning Products

Most household chemical-based cleaners are poisonous if ingested but some all-natural products can be poisonous as well. Products that contain essential oils such as lavender can be toxic to our feline companions.

3. Rodenticides

This one is self-explanatory. Rodenticides are usually poison designed to kill rodents.

4. Insecticides

Additionally, this one is also self-explanatory. Insecticides are often chemical-based and can cause harm if ingested.

5. Antifreeze

Antifreeze is toxic to ALL animals. If you see any spilled antifreeze make sure to clean it up and dispose of it properly. Antifreeze should be kept in an out-of-reach place and locked up.

6. Pool and Spa Chemicals

Chemicals can be poisonous if you pet ingests them. Make sure pool and spa chemicals are kept away from anywhere you pets may get into.

7. Fertilizer

Fertilizer provides nutrients for plants, but they often contain chemicals that are harmful to pets. It’s one of the more common household items that are poisonous to pets. Fertilizer poisoning often happens because of accidental ingestion when a pet cleans themself after playing outside.

8. Lead Paint Chips

Lead is known to be toxic to humans, as well as pets. If you are doing some DIY are dealing with lead paint (we recommend hiring a professional however), make sure pets are not in the room and make sure you dispose of any lead paint chips.

9. Some Plants

There are a lot of household plants that are poisonous to pets. Here is a list of common household plants that are toxic to pets. Did you know that some mushrooms are also toxic? Keep an eye out for any of these when on walks.

10. Yeast Dough

From the AKC: “When a dog eats bread dough, the yeast in the dough continues to make the dough rise, distending his stomach and releasing toxic levels of ethanol into the dog’s bloodstream. The pressure of the rising dough can mimic and cause bloat, but the real danger is from the alcohol toxicosis.” This one is the biggest shock for me on the list as I had no idea, but it makes sense when you think about it.

Common Household Items Poisonous to Pets

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned contact the Pet Poison Helpline 1-800-213-6680 and seek veterinary help immediately.

Contact Pet Poison Helpline | Pet Poison Helpline

Did any of these common household items that are poisonous to pets on this list shock you? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting

What To Do If You Think Your Pet Has Been Poisoned

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What To Do If You Think Your Pet Has Been Poisoned

It’s every pet parents worst nightmare. Your pet got into something they shouldn’t have. Sometimes, this is fine. But what if they got into the medicine cabinet or under the sink? What about one of your plants? Here are steps to take if you think your pet has been poisoned.

  • Make a note of the toxin’s name and strength;
  • Make a note of the amount of toxin your pet has consumed or been exposed to;
  • Get your pet to fresh air if the poisoning is primarily from fumes or gas;
  • Remove topical substances with gloves if the poisoning is primarily from contact;
  • Use paper towels or old rags to clean up liquids;
  • Do not attempt to remove the poison with water, solvents, or anything else unless instructed to by your vet;
  • Never induce vomiting unless instructed to by your vet

Pet Poison Steps

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned contact the Pet Poison Helpline 1-800-213-6680 and seek veterinary help immediately.

Contact Pet Poison Helpline | Pet Poison Helpline

If your pet needs veterinary treatment and you don’t have pet insurance, consider getting pet insurance. Pet insurance can lower the cost of unexpected veterinary expenses if you pet gets into anything again.

Did you know some plants that are poisonous to cats aren’t poisonous to dogs? Also check out our What Mushrooms are Toxic to Pets blog.

What Mushrooms are Toxic to Pets?

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What Mushrooms are Toxic to Pets Header

What Mushrooms are Toxic to Pets?

The wet season is here which means, mushrooms! Mushrooms might be great on pizza for us, many curious pets consume mushrooms that are toxic while out on walks. It’s important to be diligent and to avoid any mushrooms you may see. This also includes inspecting your yard, especially after it has rained, for any mushrooms that may have sprouted up. We’ve compiled a list of a few of the more common mushrooms that are toxic to pets you may encounter.

1. Ivory Funnel

Ivory Funnel Mushroom
Archenzo, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

2. Fly Amanita/Fly Agaric

Fly Amanita/Fly Agaric Mushroom
Petar Milošević, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Panther Cap

Panther Cap Mushroom
George Chernilevsky, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Gemmed Amanita

Gemmed Amanita Mushroom
Scott Darbey from Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

5. Death Cap

Death Cap Mushroom
George Chernilevsky, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Gyromitra Esculenta (False Morels)

Gyromitra Esculenta (False Morels)
Jason Hollinger, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

7. Smith’s Amanita

Smith's Amanita Mushroom
Colin Smith / Fungi on Pound Common

8. Death Angel

Death Angel Mushroom
This image was created by user Ryane Snow (snowman) at Mushroom Observer, a source for mycological images.You can contact this user here, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

9. Hongo’s False Death Cap

Hongo's False Death Cap Mushroom
The High Fin Sperm Whale, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Want a handy infographic to keep on the fridge? We have one for you below!

Mushrooms Toxic to Pets Infographic

If you fear your pet has eaten a poisonous or unknown mushroom, seek veterinary help immediately. If possible, try to get a sample of the same mushroom from where they were found to help aid in identification. You can learn more about what plants are poisonous to pets on our blog as well as common household products that are toxic to pets.

Did you learn something from our list? Let us know in the comments below.

What Plants are Poisonous to Cats?

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What Plants are Poisonous to Cats Header

What Plants are Poisonous to Cats?

As pet parents we know that our cats get into a lot of things including things they shouldn’t eat. But what about plants? Most of us know lilies are deadly but are there others? Here’s 12 plants you may have that are poisonous to your cat.

1. Autumn Crocus

Crocus vernus with bee
Generalrelative, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

2. Azaleas

Azalea Flower
Marianafloresocampo, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

3. Cyclamen

Cyclamen hederifolium. Locatie, Tuinreservaat Jonker vallei 03
Dominicus Johannes Bergsma, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

4. Daffodils

Daffodils, 2021-03-23, Beechview, 03
Cbaile19, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

5. Dieffenbachia

Dieffenbachia cultivar
Tomáš Kebert & umimeto.org, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

6. Hyacinth

HyacinthPink
Elf – [1], CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

7. Kalanchoe

Kalanchoe blossfeldiana Plant 09
Sabina Bajracharya, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

8. Lilies

Easter Lily.
Halder97Sudipto, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

9. Oleander

Nerium oleander pink
Challiyan at Malayalam Wikipedia, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

10. Rhododendrons

Rhododendron ponticum actm 04
Agnes Monkelbaan, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

11. Sago Palm

12. Tulips

Tulipa suaveolens floriade to Canberra
John O’Neill, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Want a handy infographic to put on the fridge? We have one for you below.

Poisonous Plants for Cats Infographic

Do you have any of these plants in your home? If so, make sure to remove them or place them into a room where your cat cannot get to them. If you believe you pet has ingested any of these plants, call the Pet Poison Helpline and seek veterinary help immediately. Want to know more? See our previous post on Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets.

Amigo Animal Hospital - Veterinarian In Westminster, CA USA :: Pet Poison Helpline

Were any of these plants that are poisonous to cats new to you? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting or #WetNosesPetSitting. We’d love to hear your feedback.

Did you know mushrooms can also be toxic to cats? See our blog post here to learn more about what mushrooms are toxic to pets.

 

Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets

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Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets Header

Houseplants That Are Toxic to Pets

Before bringing in a new plant it’s important to know which houseplants are toxic to pets. Do you have houseplants, or are thinking of adding some to your home? Then check out these tips!

Many common houseplants are toxic to pets. These include:

  • Aloe Vera
  • Caladium
  • Eucalyptus
  • Ivy Plants
  • Jade Plants
  • Lilies
  • Mistletoe
  • Poinsettia
  • Pothos

You might even have one of these and didn’t even realize it. We have them around anyway and most of the time our pets are fine with them, but there are times when we should be more concerned.

Times when you need to worry about pets and plants:

  1. When you get a new plant: New things are always exciting and worth investigating. This can lead to accidental ingestion.
  2. When you have a new pet or have a pet visiting your home: These animals aren’t used to your plants (or maybe being around plants in general) and should be observed before being left alone with them. Never leave a pet alone with a houseplant that is toxic to pets.
  3. When you move a plant around in your home: Same thing as the new plant, except your pet thinks it’s a new plant even when it isn’t.

How to keep your pets safe:

  • Know which of your plants are toxic.
  • Keep an eye on your plants for any evidence your pets are messing with them.
  • Put plants out of reach if possible – either on a high to reach shelf or in a locked room your pets can’t get into.
  • Call the pet poison helpline if your pet has eaten or chewed on one of your plants.

Houseplants that are toxic to pets Infographic

Did you know that there are some plants that are poisonous to cats but not dogs? Check out our guide for what plants are poisonous to cats.

The Dangers of Xylitol in Peanut Butter

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The Dangers of Xylitol in Peanut Butter

Recently, there has been a post going around Facebook telling dog parents not to give their dogs peanut butter. If you look further into why peanut butter can be deadly to your pup, you will find xylitol to blame.

So what the heck is it? Xylitol is a food additive that is used to replace sugar in many foods. It is found in hundreds of food and health products, such as gum, human toothpaste, vitamins, and now peanut butter. While xylitol is perfectly safe for humans it is extremely toxic to dogs. Potentially more toxic than chocolate.

When minimal amounts of xylitol is used are used  (like doggie mouth wash) it is perfectly safe for your dog. However, the concentrations of the sweetener in most human food is very dangerous to your dog and can cause poisoning.

Dog being fed peanut butter

What are the symptoms of xylitol poisoning in dogs?

  • Vomiting
  • Weakness
  • Incoordination or difficulty walking or standing (walking like drunk)
  • Depression or lethargy
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Coma

Left untreated poisoning can lead to liver damage. These symptoms typically show up 10-60 minutes after eating it.

What should you do?

1. Always read the labels of any product you giver your pooch and look for potentially poisonous things. Only some brands of peanut butter have this type of deadly sweetener in them.
2. Do not leave gum or toothpaste where your dog can get to them.
3. If your dog does eat xylitol, call your vet right away.

With veterinary care arriving quickly, your dog will hopefully be able to have a full recovery.

What peanut butter is safe?

Many brands don’t contain xylitol but if you want to be extra cautious you should purchase a dog-safe peanut butter. Here are a few brands on the market that all fit different pet owners needs.

Pawnut Butter

Green Coast Pet Pawnut Butter @ $9.99

Super Snouts Nutty Dog CBD Spread @ $29.99

Natural Peanut Butter For Dogs | Woof Butter – woofbutter.com

woof butter Natural Peanut Butter @ £3.99

What about birch sugar?

Did you know another name for xylitol in peanut butter is birch sugar? With more companies being aware of consumers hesitancy towards purchasing products containing xylitol they have come up with other ways to label xylitol-containing products.

Birch Sugar is another name for Xylitol

Once you’ve checked your peanut butter labels, why not try our Peanut Butter Molasses Dog Treats. Did we miss something? Let us know in the comments or @WetNosesPetSitting.