Dropped Pills Top 2010 List Of Toxins Poisoning Pets In America

Human medications including dropped pills sickened more pets in the United States last year than any other toxin.

It's the third year in a row that human medications top the ASPCA’s list of top 10 toxins, which was released Friday.

Over-the-counter medicines with ibuprofen and acetaminophen, antidepressants and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder medicine topped the list.

Over a quarter of the calls received by the ASPCA poison centers hotlines in 2010 alone were about pets who had swallowed human drugs. The poison centers do not track deaths because there are too many variables.

Pet owners won't always know what their animals have gotten into – they just know they are showing symptoms like lethargy, vomiting, depression, seizures or refusing food.

A dog who has swallowed pills to treat ADHD will get agitated. What happens when a pet gets hold of birth control, Viagra and Rogaine pills?

Luckily birth control pills today have very small amounts of estrogen in them. Viagra is used for dogs with pulmonary hypertension and it was originally marketed to regulate blood pressure. Rogaine can be very dangerous, especially in cats, and can cause heart failure.

One aspirin or one heart pill probably won't kill a pet, but a month's supply, a big bunch of grapes, a few bars of dark chocolate or a single lily could.

Insecticides, rodenticides, people food, veterinary medications, chocolate, household toxins, plants, herbicides and outdoor toxins (like antifreeze and fertilizers) round out the top 10.

Over the past few years, there has been a slight increase in the number of chocolate-caused deaths and a larger increase in the number of dogs ingesting life-threatening doses of methylxanthine, which is found in chocolate, Dogs love chocolate and they are gluttons. They won't stop eating it. It would take about an ounce of milk chocolate per pound of dog to be deadly, but only an eighth of an ounce of really dark chocolate per pound.

At Easter time especially when lilies are very popular it’s important to watch your cats. If a cat bites on a leaf or bats at a lily and gets pollen on its paw, then licks it off, leave for the vet immediately.

Researchers have only determined in the last four or five years that grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. They don't know what it is in them that makes this happen, but three-quarters of a pound of grapes can cause very significant toxicity in a dog.

Alcohol , especially cream-based drinks like Russian eggnog, can make an animal very drunk very quickly. The animal will wobble, vomit, maybe inhale vomit into its lungs and become comatose

Bread made from scratch can also be a problem. The reason the dough is rising is because it produces gas, but it also produces alcohol so your dog can get drunk that way too. In addition, the dough will continue to expand inside the dog.

This may seem funny but the number of marijuana calls the centers receive have increased recently. Dogs and cats like to chew on plants, and munching on marijuana plants can increase their blood pressure. While you may not think your pet would every come in contact with marijuana, just realize that it does still grow in the wild to some extent.

To learn more go to the link below for the 

 ASPCA Top 10 Toxins of 2010:

http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/top-10-pet-poisons-of-the-year.aspx

Dangers of Dogs Eating Acorns

Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, and renal failure may be symptoms shown by dogs eating acorns or drinking water that oak leaves have soaked in.

Many people are surprised to hear that those beautiful, shady oak trees in the backyard that everyone, including the dog, loves to stretch out under can be a potential danger for their dog.

According to the ASPCA website, as well as Dr. Jon Geller, veterinarian with dogchannel.com, acorns contain gallotannin which, depending on the amount eaten, can cause gastrointestinal upsets in pets and other animals, with symptoms such as cramps, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, sometimes bloody diarrhea, and kidney failure. A few dogs may have seizures. Acorns swallowed whole have the potential to block the intestines, while chewed acorns release more toxin and the sharp pieces can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.

The hard outer shell of an acorn contains the most gallotannin while green acorns contain more gallotannin than brown acorns. Small amounts may cause only mild illness but in severe cases, dogs have died of kidney failure from eating acorns. Dr. Geller even mentions that oak buds, bark, leaves, and drinking water that oak leaves have soaked in can cause illness in dogs.

Oak trees are the icon of strength and beauty and form a comfortable shade during hot summer but when leaves and acorns begin to fall, dog owners may be wise to keep an eye on the dog. Not all dogs will eat them but the little round objects can look an awful lot like a toy or something fun to play with. Dogs don’t always know what is and is not good for them. Teething puppies, especially, have a tendency to investigate and taste everything. Some dog owners report that symptoms can show up quickly after ingestion or be delayed for several days.

Outside drinking water should be kept in a place where leaves can not fall into it and should be cleaned and changed every day.

There is no antidote for animals poisoned by oak tree parts. Treatment is supportive such as intravenous fluids and medications for pain and gastrointestinal upsets.

There are other common plants that are toxic to dogs, as well as some garden supplies and antifreeze. Dog owners may also be interested in learning about table foods and onion toxicity.

And remember, the best treatment is always prevention.

For more information about things that can be

toxic to animals go to:

http://www.petplace.com/

Caring For Your Old Dog In The New Year

People flip over puppies, but to me, a well-loved older dog is one of the most beautiful creatures on earth. An older dog has a nobleness about him, a look in the eyes that speaks of years of the special love that only a pet can give – trusting, nonjudgmental and unwaveringly true.

Your dog's health as he ages is not entirely in your control, but you can have a real impact on his attitude. Your dog doesn't know he's getting older. His gray hairs concern him not, nor does he worry about the other visible effects of time – the thickening of his body, the thinning of his limbs. He doesn't count the number of times he can fetch a ball before tiring and compare that to his performance when he was a young dog in his prime.

A dog lives in the now. Just as he doesn't reflect on his past, he can't imagine his future. Your dog takes his cues from you. When you're upbeat, encouraging and loving, he'll be at his best, no matter his age.

This time can be a special one for both of you, and it's up to you to make the most of it.

As your dog ages, increase the frequency and diminish the intensity of his exercise. Instead of taking your dog to the park once a week to chase tennis balls until he's exhausted, take him for a long walk daily. If your dog is having problems with physical activity, talk to your veterinarian. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help, as may supplements such as glucosamine and omega-3 oils, or complementary treatments such as acupuncture. Your veterinarian can also prescribe medications that may address the confusion and anxiety some old dogs experience.

Your dog has no real sense of shame or embarrassment, so he suffers no loss of face if you come up with some ideas to make his life a little easier. Here are a few tips to get you thinking:

• Beds: Think soft. Think cushioned. Think low. Think heated. Your dog will thank you for all of these thoughts, especially at this time of year.

• Clothes: Older dogs, like older people, have a more difficult time maintaining their body temperature. This problem is even more pronounced in slender, short-coated breeds like the greyhound or whippet, or in tiny dogs. So check out the sweater selection at your local pet supply store.

• Ramps and steps: If your dogs are allowed on the couch and the bed, consider buying or building steps to help the dog who can no longer make it in one jump. You wouldn't want to watch TV without your dog at your side, would you? A permanent ramp going down the back-porch step or a collapsible one to help your dog into the car will also be appreciated.

While you're making household adjustments, don't forget to make an appointment for a senior dog checkup, ideally twice a year, to improve your odds of catching little problems before they become big ones. Your veterinarian will likely recommend some diagnostic tests in addition to a physical examination – typically blood work and an X-ray – to spot problems early, or to establish a baseline of what's normal for your dog. You should also discuss having your dog's teeth treated and cleaned under anesthesia, because gum infections and mouth pain will affect his comfort and health.

The senior dog checkup is also a good time to determine if your dog's slowing down means his diet will need to change to take excess weight off his joints.

Helping to keep your older dog healthy and fit will mean his senior years will be happier and more comfortable. And that will be good news for you both.

Home or Vet

When to Treat Your Dog at Home and When to Call A Vet

From The American Kennel Club

Emergencies for your dog can happen at any time. Some are minor, while others can be life threatening. American Kennel Club's AKC Family Dog contributor and veterinarian Jeff Grognet offers advice on what you can treat at home and when you should bring your dog to the veterinarian.


Among them:

- Eyes: Any eye problem your dog has needs to be seen by a veterinarian. Most people can't tell if their dog has a scratch that will heal on its own, or glaucoma which will cause vision loss very quickly.

- Vomiting and diarrhea: Sudden, mild vomiting is common and can be treated at home, as long as the dog is not inactive and lethargic and the vomiting stops. Withhold food and water for 12 hours. Once the 12 hours have gone by, offer your dog water. If he can hold the water down for two hours, offer some bland food. Diarrhea can be treated at home by withholding only food. "Whenever vomiting or diarrhea continues, or the dog is depressed, or if the dog is under 16 weeks old or is a senior, it's time for a veterinary visit," says Dr. Grognet. "These dogs are fragile and a little dehydration can make them ill."

- Bloat: Bloat happens to a dog when the stomach begins swelling with air and rotating, which closes off the entrance and exit. Symptoms of bloat include drooling, trying to vomit, anxiety, pacing, and a swollen belly. This disease is very dangerous and needs immediate treatment from your veterinarian.


- Allergic reactions: Your dog might have an allergic reaction from insect bites or stings, food, or medications. What most commonly happens is the muzzle and eyelids will swell. While this is uncomfortable for your pooch, it is not dangerous. He may also develop hives on his body which are very itchy, but also not dangerous. Consult your vet on how to keep your dog comfortable during an allergic reaction.

In addition, the article offers a list of items dog owners should have on hand. Among them:

- Adhesive tape for bandaging.

- Sterile dressing pads for covering wounds.

- Gauze sponges for covering or cleaning wounds.

- Antiseptic soap/solution for cleaning wounds.

- Plastic Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from licking wounds or irritated skin, or rubbing at his eyes or ears.

- Blanket or towel to keep your dog warm or to carry him hammock-style.
More emergency situations can be found in the November/December 2010 issue of AKC Family Dog. To subscribe to AKC Family Dog, go to www.akc.org/pubs/index.cfm.

Winter Paw Care for Dogs

Winter can be especially hard on a dog's paws. Unprotected from ice, snow, and slush, and bitter cold, their paws need special care in winter. By taking a little extra time to keep your dogs' paws well-groomed, you can minimize problems with cracked, sore pads, blisters and infections.


The products used to clear the ice and snow that accompany cold winter weather can be a real hazard for dogs. Rock salt and most chemical de-icers can irritate a dog's paws and turn a winter walk into a painful ordeal. Stay away from heavily salted areas as much as possible when walking your dog.

Inspect paws after walking in areas treated with salt and other de-icers. Check between toes and examine the foot pads for cracks in the skin. Look closely at any inflamed areas for splinters, embedded gravel, etc.



Snow, especially wet snow, clings to long haired dogs as they run and play in the snow. When snow or slush from melting ice and snow on sidewalks sticks to the hair beneath a dog's paws, lumps of ice, often mixed with rock salt and gravel, build up between their foot pads and toes. Walking hurts.

Always wash paws with warm water after outdoor play and winter walks. Even if there's no trace of cracks, irritation or any damage and no snow and ice to remove, it's important to wash away all traces of salt and other de-icers so a dog can't lick it off later. Never let a dog try to chew away any lumps if ice and snow sticking to its paws or hanging from its fur.

Ingesting rock salt or chemical de-icing products can have a toxic effect. There are pet-safe ice melting products available. (See ad below) Use one of them instead of rock salt for de-icing side walks and driveways. The National Animal Poison Control Center also suggests using sand or cat litter as an alternative. They won't melt ice, but they'll provide added traction.

After washing, apply Vaseline or Bag Balm to foot pads to soothe irritated paws. Apply again just before walks or outdoor play time to protect paws. Snow and ice collecting under paws will be less of a problem for long-haired dogs if the hair on their paws is properly trimmed.

Cut long hair growing from between the pads or each foot. Using a sharp grooming scissors, cut hair so that it's even with the pads. If there are any mats between the pads, very carefully cut the mat out, leaving as much of the hair below the mat as possible. Cut hair from between the toes even with the surface of the foot. Next... trim hair from around the edge of the foot. On dogs with long feathering on the back of their front legs, trim any excessively long hair so it does not drag on the ground.

It's important to keep a dog's nails trimmed all year long, but absolutely crucial in winter. Untrimmed nails can lead to splayed feet, sore nailbeds, and even torn nail. When nails are extra long, the toes spread apart when walking, leaving more space for snow and ice to build up.

Cats also have special winter skin and paw care needs.

For more information about paw and skin care for dogs and cats during the winter click on the link below:

http://organizedwisdom.com/aspca-top-ten-winter-skin-paw-care-tips/3410472/nxi/med

Recipe for Giving

This year one of our generous bookstore volunteers did something very special for the animals at the LaGrange shelter. Dianne Osipowich lost her beloved pet BB not long before the holidays. In honor of BB’s memory she decided to make special pet treats for the dogs and cats at the shelter. She made 164 dog treats and 45 cat treats. Her time and care truly reflected the spirit of the season.

Dianne has been generous enough to share her special treat recipes with us.

CHEESE (OR PEANUTBUTTER) MULTI-GRAIN DOG BISCUITS

1 cup uncooked oatmeal

¼ cup margarine

1 egg – beaten

1 ½ cup hot water or meat juices

1 cup cornmeal

½ cup powdered milk

1 cup wheat germ

4 oz (1 cup) grated cheese (or ½ cup peanut butter)

1 ½ cup white flour

 

Bake 350o for 30 min.

 

CAT BISCUITS

2 ½ cups whole wheat flour

½ cup powdered skim milk

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 egg – beaten

Juice from canned tuna

 

Bake 350o for 30 min.