A dog can be poisoned by being exposed to a multitude of substances. Depending on the amount and type of poison, the route of contact or the size of the dog, the consequences will be more or less severe.
The symptoms will also be variable depending on the mentioned parameters. Thus, we can find digestive or neurological pictures. Poisonings are usually a veterinary emergency, so let’s take a closer look at what their symptoms are.
Index of contents
- 1 When can I suspect that my dog has been poisoned?
- 1.1 Insects, amphibians, and snakes also poison
- 2 Poisoning symptoms in dogs
- 3 Routes of poisoning in dogs
- 4 What do I do if my dog has been poisoned? First aid
- 4.1 When not to induce vomiting in a poisoned dog
- 5 Treatment for poisoned dogs
When can I suspect that my dog has been poisoned?
There are numerous situations in which a dog can come into contact with a toxic substance. Especially since they are very curious animals and explorers, especially while they are cubs. Poisoning symptoms may coincide with those of some diseases.
But we can suspect an intoxication if we realize that the dog has been sniffing through field or storage areas. In them contact with dead animals, insects, plants or poisoned bait may occur.
Having rummaged through the garbage, eaten some food out of the usual diet or opened a cupboard with cleaning products or drugs are other alert situations. It should also be taken into account if we have administered or applied any medication or dewormer.
Insects, amphibians, and snakes also poison
Stings or the ingestion of certain animals are also a source of poisoning. Bees, wasps, or ants cause painful swellings and redness at the sting site. If the dog receives many can experience shock as a result of toxins from these insects.
There are also some spiders whose bites are poisonous to dogs. Likewise, scorpions, centipedes or ticks must be taken into account. On the other hand, there are toxic toads and salamanders by contact and poisonous snakes.
Poisoning symptoms in dogs
Although some of these symptoms are common in other pathologies, if we appreciate them when we suspect that our dog may have been poisoned, we must urgently go to the vet.
- Seizures / Tremors / Disordination.
- General weakness and / or abdominal, joint or muscle pain.
- Diarrhea.
- Hypersalivation / Vomiting that, like diarrhea, may contain blood.
- Hemorrhages, which can appear days after contact with the poison.
- Paleness of mucous membranes and skin.
- Thirst and increase in the amount of urine eliminated.
- Depression / Nervousness.
- Changes in behavior.
- Stiffness or agitation of the legs.
- Garlic-smelling breath.
- Paralysis.
- Irritation on the skin and / or mucosa.
- Hallucinations
- Respiratory problems / Gasps.
- Reduction of the size of the pupil or extension of the same.
- Stand still looking at nothing, how hypnotized
Routes of poisoning in dogs
Normally, when we talk about poisonings we think about the intake of different substances. But contact poisoning is also possible. Even inhalation is another route of entry of toxins into the body.. This can lead, for example, to poisoning by gasoline, kerosene or turpentine.
And, as for intake, a very common cause of poisoning in dogs is due to the medications given by their handlers. They can be drugs for human use that simply are not tolerated by dogs, or overdoses of veterinary products.
What do I do if my dog has been poisoned? First aid
Sometimes it is indicated to induce vomiting, but in other cases it is counterproductive. Therefore, the safest thing is that Let’s call the vet right away for instructions if we know what it is that has poisoned the dog. He will tell us, if applicable, how to safely induce vomiting.
This call does not replace the consultation but allows us to advance the treatment while we arrive at the clinic. When poisoning has occurred by contact, we can wash the affected area with plenty of warm water. We will use gloves. We will also contact the vet.
If the snake bite We must keep the dog calm and carry him to the vet. Exercise increases the absorption of the poison. The wound should not be washed for the same reason. You should also not apply ice or cut around or try to suck on it.
When not to induce vomiting in a poisoned dog
Although we should always contact the vet, there are signs that indicate that the transfer to a center must be immediate, without causing vomiting, as it would be counterproductive. The cases are as follows:
- When the dog has already vomited by itself.
- If you are unconscious or stuporous.
- Before seizures.
- When it is difficult to breathe.
- Whether the ingested poison is a cleaner or an oil derivative.
- In the event that we identify the poison and the label specifically states that vomiting is not caused.
- Suspecting that the dog may have ingested a sharp object.
Treatment for poisoned dogs
The treatment of a poisoning will vary depending on the substance and the conditions of the dog. The general rule is to go to the nearest veterinary clinic at the first symptom. It is important that, if we know what has caused the poisoning, we should notify the vet.
Thus treatment can be started faster. This usually includes intensive care in hospitalization. Fluids are given intravenously. In this way the amount of urine is increased and the toxic is eliminated more.
Depending on the symptoms, different drugs such as corticosteroids, diuretics, vitamin K or anticonvulsants will be included. Transfusions may be required in cases of bleeding. Of course, if there is an antidote to the poison, it is given as well.