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By Wendy Christensen, Excerpted from the June 2000 issue of Your Dog
Ah, a dog's life. Rolling in the lush green grass of the front yard;
lapping puddles in the garden to cool off; sampling the houseplants and
pretty flower arrangements; and discovering tasty tidbits in the
garbage can.
According to Amy D. Shojai, author of The Purina Encyclopedia of Dog
Care, "Dog's use their mouths in lieu of hands, and so they pick up,
mouth, chew and end up exposing themselves to all manner of potential
toxins in and around the home."
We certainly don't want to see any evidence of automobile fluid spills
- especially antifreeze. "Antifreeze is a very, very fast poison,"
warns Dr. Charles DeVinne of the Animal Care Clinic in Peterborough,
New Hampshire. "To save an animal, you practically have to actually see
him consuming the antifreeze and rush him instantly to the veterinarian
to begin emergency treatment."
Lock away garden fertilizers, pesticides, rodenticides, pool chemicals
and auto supplies like oil, antifreeze, and gasoline in adequately
ventilated storage areas behind a door with a secure latch. Check
containers for deterioration, as some products eat through plastic over
time.
Whether they're running loose or on a leash, dogs can pick up all sorts
of harmful substances on their paws. Your dog will inevitably lick his
paws and eat these substances if they're not immediately removed. Use
petroleum jelly or mineral oil (never kerosene or turpentine!) to
remove sticky substances, then wash with mild soap and water.
Keep all animals (and children too) off and away from newly fertilized
lawns for at least 24 hours, longer if possible. The lawn should be
completely dry before anyone, of any species, goes near it.
The compost heap can be irresistible for a curious canine, but molds,
fungus, salmonella and even nastier stuff awaits him. Keep it well
maintained, securely fenced and turn it regularly.
What if your careful precautions fail, and your dog gets into something
he shouldn't? Call your vet immediately - or drive the dog to the
veterinary emergency clinic. Bring the suspected toxin with you so the
veterinarian will be able to identify the source of the problem and
determine the appropriate treatment.
If you can't reach your vet or a clinic quickly, call the National Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.
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