Top Items That Are Hazardous for Pets

As a caring and responsible owner, you want to do everything in your power to keep your precious pet safe from harm. One of the best ways to do this is to make yourself aware of the things that could pose a threat to them. Here are some of the top items that are hazardous for pets. 

Human Medications

Unsurprisingly, human medications are not suitable for animal consumption – even things like antacids or Tylenol that we might usually think are harmless. Nevertheless, this doesn’t stop many from accidentally leaving our drugs within reach of our pets. Make sure that all medications are securely locked away from curious noses and paws. 

 

Chemicals 

We use household chemicals for everything from bleaching our bathroom floors to cleaning our swimming pools. As humans we know not to drink any cleaning products, but our animals don’t have the same awareness. Some chemical cleaners can be very irritating to your pet’s skin if they come into contact, so it’s best to make sure that your furry pal doesn’t have access to any of them. 

 

Herbicides and Pesticides 

If you are a keen gardener, or even if you just like to keep your garden free from weeds or pests, chances are you have some herbicides and pesticides lurking around your property. These chemicals are bad news for any animal that wanders by.

 

Some Plants 

While we are on the subject of gardens, it’s also important to be aware that while they look pretty, some plants and flowers are toxic to animals. Some of the most common household or backyard plants that can cause a dangerous reaction if touched or eaten by your pet include:

 

• Azalea
• Daffodil
• Hyacinth
• Lily of the Valley
• Lilies
• Oleander
• Sago Palm
• Tulips

You can find a full list of every toxic plant and flower online or ask your vet for advice. 
 

Some Human Foods

Animals, and especially dogs, are notorious for being less than fussy when it comes to their food. In fact, the natural curiosity of many creatures means that they are more than happy to try and little of whatever you are eating. And while there are some human foods that are perfectly safe for animals, there are also plenty that are not. Avocado, some nuts, onion, chives, garlic, grapes and raisins, and undercooked meat are just some of the things that could make your pet very sick. Chocolate and candy containing sugar or sugar substitutes are also firmly off-limits.

 

Small Clutter

We already know that animals aren’t fussy when it comes to putting their nose somewhere. In fact, they use their noses to help them determine when something could be a potential food source – even if they get it wrong! Small clutter around the house poses a very significant choking hazard to your pet. Make sure anything small like paperclips, marbles, legos, washing pegs, pens, buttons, and other loose items are put away securely to avoid tempting your pet to eat them!

 

If you would like more information on items that are potentially hazardous to your pet, contact the Animal Hospital of Salinas in  Salinas California at (831) 346-0600 to schedule an appointment.