• "A dog has lots of friends because he wags his tail and not his tongue" -Author Unknown
  • "Every boy should have two things: a dog and a mother willing to let him have one." - Anonymous
  • "Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot little puppies." - Gene Hill
  • A friend is one who knows you and loves you just the same. - Elbert Hubbard
  • "A hug is like a boomerang - you get it back right away." -Bil Keane
  • "A meow massages the heart." - Stuart McMillan
  • "There is more to life than increasing speed." -Mahatma Ghandi
  • "Happiness is where we find it, but rarely where we seek it." - J. Petit Senn
  • "If your horse says no, you either asked the wrong question, or asked the question wrong." - Pat Parelli
  • "There is something about the outside of a horse that is good for the inside of a man." - Winston Churchill
  • "Dogs are not our whole life, but they make our lives whole." -Roger Caras
  • "No hour of life is wasted that is spent in the saddle." - Winston Churchill
  • "Agreeable friends - they ask no questions, they pass no criticisms." - George Eliot
  • "To err is human - to forgive, canine."
  • "Money may buy you a fine dog, but only love can make it wag its tail." -Kinky Friedman
  • "Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." - Anatole France
  • "I hope to be the kind of person my dog thinks I am." - Unknown
  • "Horses - if God made anything more beautiful, he kept it for himself." - Author unknown
  • "Are we really sure the purring is coming from the kitty and not from our very own hearts?" - Terri Guillemets
  • "There is no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face." - Ben Williams

Top Pet Posions

What to do if your pet has been poisoned

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, stay calm.  Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA immediately.  Do not induce vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian.  Have the following information ready:

  • Exact name of the toxin ingested, inhaled, or absorbed
  • Approximate amount of toxin ingested
  • Estimated time that your pet was poisoned
  • Approximate weight of your pet

  • Symptoms your pet is showing:  Vomiting (note appearance), tremors, salivation, color of gums, temperature if possible.

The ASPCA (Animal Poison Control Center) is available for any animal poison-related emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at (888) 426-4435

shutterstock_55580650Poison can be fatal to pets and should be taken seriously.  Pets, like children, are curious about everything and tend to place almost anything in their mouths.  Dogs are especially prone to problems as they tend to eat items indiscriminately, whereas cats are more finicky.

According to the ASPCA, more than 100,000 cases of pet poisoning in the United States are reported each year.  Many of these were caused by substances that may seem perfectly harmless to you.  Some of the most dangerous pet poisons are foods and medications we take on a daily basis.

Depending on how a particular substance affects your pet's body and how much was ingested, pet poisoning symptoms may include gastrointestinal and neurological problems, cardiac and respiratory distress, coma, and even death.

Human Medications

Drugs that might be beneficial for people can have the opposite effect on pets.  Non steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen can cause stomach and intestinal ulcers or kidney failure.  Antidepressants may cause vomiting, increased heart rate, temperature, and blood pressure resulting in seizures.  Acetaminophen can damage red blood cells and can cause liver damage.

Flea & Tick Products

When used properly, flea and tick products are beneficial for your pet.  Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation.   If you have a flea problem using more is not better.  Thousands of pets are unintentionally poisoned every year because of overuse or using more than one product. 

People Food

Animals have different metabolisms than people.  Some foods and beverages that are safe for people can be dangerous and sometimes fatal for pets.  Chocolate if ingested in larger amounts may be fatal to your pet.  Grapes and raisins can induce kidney failure.  Xyitol, a sweetener found in sugar free gum and candy, causes a rapid drop in blood sugar which may result in seizures and liver failure.  Avocado, Macadamia nuts, onion and garlic may cause vomiting, weakness, and diarrhea.

Rat & Mouse Poison

If ingested can cause severe problems depending on the nature of the poison.  You may not notice signs for several days after consumption.  If your pet has ingested a rodenticide, call your veterinarian immediately.  Be sure to have the active ingredients available if possible.

Household Plants

They may be pretty but plants are not always pet friendly.  Azaleas and rhododendrons contain toxins that may cause vomiting, diarrhea, coma and even death.  Tulips and daffodils may cause serious stomach problems and heart damage if the bulbs are ingested.  Choose pet friendly plants for your home and yard.

Chemical Hazards

Antifreeze, paint thinners, and pool chemicals all produce chemical burns.  Antifreeze is often kept in garages or can leak onto the garage floor.  Pets are attracted to the sweet taste of antifreeze.  If you suspect your pet has ingested antifreeze contact your veterinarian as it can cause serious kidney disease and may be fatal.

Household Cleaners

Just as cleaners can poison people, they are the leading cause of pet poisoning resulting in stomach and respiratory tract problems.  There are many products available that are pet safe yet effective in cleaning.

Poison Protection

To reduce the chances that your pet will be the victim of pet poisoning, prevent exposure to dangerous substances.

  • Keep all medications, even those with child proof caps, in cabinets that are inaccessible to your pet.  If you drop a pill on the floor, look for it immediately.
  • Always follow the guidelines on flea and tick products.  Your veterinarian can recommend products and answer any questions you may have regarding usage.
  • Avoid giving your pet "people" food.  Give your pet a treats made specifically made for pets.  Choose treats that are healthy and give in moderation.
  • Keep all chemicals and rodenticides in metal cabinets or on high shelves.  Be cautious when using these products.  If you put out rat bait, inform your neighbors so they can protect their pets from exposure.
  • When buying plants for your home, opt for those that will not cause problems if your pet happens to nibble on them.  The ASPCA has a list of toxic and nontoxic plants by species.
  • Store all chemicals and household cleaners in cabinet not accessible to pets.  Consider using pet safe alternative products.