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www.thevillagenews.co.za
24 February 2021
MY PET
Home can be a dangerous place By Dr Hilldidge Beer
S
ummer’s proliferation of insect life and garden pests sees a dramatic increase in the amount of pesticides, poisons and baits used by homeowners, but few appreciate the danger this poses to their pets. Snail bait poisoning, for example, is one of the most common reasons dogs are rushed into veterinary clinics this time of year. Snail pellets scattered around plants are an irresistible lure to many dogs, yet snail and slug bait (Metaldehyde poisoning) is extremely dangerous, leading to respiratory failure and death if not treated urgently. Because it is available in pelleted form, powder and liquid, dogs may eat the pellets or lick the liquid off their paws. Either way, they’re ingesting the poison. There are many alternatives to snail bait, so do your research (www.ebervet.com/snailbait-poisoning-in-dogs/). Fertilisers, bone and blood meal, and organophosphates (like Malathion,
used to control plant pests) are all potentially deadly to pets. Fertilisers may also contain herbicides, pesticides and fungicides which increase the risk of poisoning. The main dangers from bone meal are intestinal obstruction and pancreatitis, while blood meal can contain iron which is toxic in large doses. Your best bet with all of these is to keep them locked in the shed or garage and away from prying snouts. Unfortunately, many baits used to lure and kill rodents and ants can also look tasty to our pets, especially if they contain food (peanut butter) as a lure. If ingested by dogs, these poisons can cause severe problems. The scary thing about rat poison is that symptoms usually only start after 5 – 7 days, so many owners won't take their dog to the vet at first because the dog appears unaffected. That's the wrong thing to do. Getting your dog to the vet as fast as possible is essential. In some instances, the dog may have eaten the poisoned rodent, and not been directly exposed
to the toxin. Explore alternative options like pet-safe bait stations. Common symptoms of poisoning • Drooling • Vomiting • Difficulty breathing • Staggering and stumbling • Tearing eyes • Abnormal heartbeat • Collapse • Urination • Defecation What to do if your pet is poisoned • Stay calm. It is important to act quickly, but rationally. • Gather up any of the potential poison or its packaging that remains – this may be helpful to your veterinarian and any outside experts who assist with the case. If your dog has vomited, collect the sample in case your veterinarian needs to see it. • Get your pet to the vet as soon as possible. • If your dog has sudden nose bleeds, weakness, loss of appetite, is vomiting blood, has blood in its urine or stool or pale gums, he or she may have ingested rat poison without you
knowing it. Get your dog to the vet immediately! How to prevent poisoning Keep all forms of poison locked away and out of reach of children and animals. If you need to use rat poison, rather use bait stations that are pet-friendly. These only allow access to rats and mice. If you find dead rats and mice around
the house or garden, dispose of them as quickly as possible where they cannot be eaten. Explore natural options to control garden pests. There are many excellent products on the market. – Veterinarian Dr Hilldidge Beer is the CEO of EberVet Vetshops and the EberVet Petcare Group, www.ebervet.com
