Pets are naturally curious, and sometimes that curiosity can lead them to ingest harmful substances. Poisoning is a serious risk that can happen at any time, whether from household products, toxic foods, or plants. March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, a time to raise awareness about potential hazards and how to protect pets from accidental poisoning. At Country Club Veterinary Clinic, we want to help pet owners recognize common toxins, take preventive measures, and know what to do in case of an emergency.

Signs of Poisoning in Pets

Symptoms of poisoning can vary depending on the toxin, but some common signs to watch for include:

• Vomiting and Diarrhea – Often the first signs of ingestion of a toxic substance
• Excessive Drooling or Pawing at the Mouth – Indicates possible irritation from chemicals or toxic plants
• Lethargy or Weakness – A sudden lack of energy may signal poisoning
• Tremors, Seizures, or Difficulty Walking – Can indicate neurological effects from toxins
• Difficulty Breathing or Coughing – Some poisons affect the respiratory system
• Increased Thirst and Urination – May indicate damage to the kidneys from toxic ingestion

If your pet shows any of these signs and you suspect poisoning, call a pet poison control hotline immediately for guidance.

Common Household Poisons

Many everyday items, foods, and plants can be dangerous for pets. Some of the most common toxins include:

• Human Medications – Pain relievers, antidepressants, cold medicine, and vitamins can be harmful
• Toxic Foods – Chocolate, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and baked goods), grapes, onions, garlic, alcohol, and caffeine
• Poisonous Plants – Lilies (especially toxic to cats), sago palms, azaleas, and philodendrons
• Household Chemicals – Bleach, antifreeze, rodenticides, insecticides, and fertilizers
• Essential Oils and Diffusers – Some essential oils, including tea tree and eucalyptus, can be toxic to pets

For a more detailed list of toxic substances, visit the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center website.

What to Do If Your Pet is Poisoned

If you suspect that your pet has ingested something toxic, act quickly:

1. Call a pet poison control hotline immediately. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) or the Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) can assess the risk and provide expert guidance.
2. Do not induce vomiting unless instructed. Some substances can cause more harm if vomited. Always follow the poison control expert’s recommendations.
3. Seek veterinary care immediately. Country Club Veterinary Clinic provides emergency care during business hours, but if your pet requires urgent medical attention outside of our hours, please take them to a 24/7 emergency hospital for treatment.
4. Bring any packaging or labels of the substance your pet may have ingested to help veterinarians determine the best course of treatment.

Preventing Pet Poisoning

The best way to keep your pet safe is through prevention. Here are some tips to reduce the risk of accidental poisoning:

• Store Medications Securely – Keep all human and pet medications out of reach, and never give your pet human medicine unless prescribed by a veterinarian
• Be Mindful of Food and Treats – Keep toxic foods off counters and away from pets, and read ingredient labels carefully
• Use Pet-Safe Cleaning Products – Avoid toxic chemicals and keep cleaning supplies in locked cabinets
• Check Your Houseplants – Before bringing new plants into your home or garden, confirm they are non-toxic to pets

Emergency Care When Your Pet Needs It

At Country Club Veterinary Clinic, we provide emergency care during business hours and can treat poisoning cases. However, if your pet requires immediate medical attention after hours, we recommend calling pet poison control and seeking treatment at a 24/7 emergency hospital.

If you're ever unsure about what to do, don’t wait—call a poison control expert and get your pet medical care as soon as possible. Early intervention can make all the difference.

For non-urgent pet health concerns, Country Club Veterinary Clinic is here to help. Contact us for wellness care, preventive health measures, and expert guidance on keeping your pet safe.