Toxic Ingestion Is A Common Pet Emergency

TLC Animal Hospital treats many pets in El Paso that have decided they would taste, chew, or consume items that are toxic to them. Signs of toxic ingestion include lethargy, inability to drink, extreme thirst, inability to urinate, vomiting, and more depending on the toxin. Prevention is key to protect your pet. If you think your pet may have gotten ahold of something bad, bring him to see one of our veterinarians for a pet exam as soon as possible.

Preventing Toxic Ingestion:

Never assume your pet will not get into a substance. Always put things that you know are harmful well out of your pet’s way. Many people have assumed that their pet would not even notice a sealed box, just to have the animal tear into it and eat the contents in a half hour.

If you are unsure if something is toxic, err on the side of caution and keep your pets away from the substance or plant. Some plants are harmless to pets most of the year but drop seeds occasionally that can be harmful. It is simply best to not allow your pet to eat anything unproven or other than its food.

Knowledge is power. These are some common household items that are toxic to pets: rat poison, chocolate, human medications including Tylenol, alcohol, avocado seeds, flea treatments, and paint on some objects they may chew. The list is ever-growing so keep up with any new object you bring into your house and consider the risk it may be to your pet.

Contact Us Immediately If Your Pet Has Consumed Anything Harmful

Do not delay. Contact us if you think your pet ate, licked, or chewed something that could be toxic. Even if you are not sure, call TLC Animal Hospital in El Paso at 915-592-6200 for urgent pet care and advice when dealing with a toxic ingestion.