March is Poison Prevention Awareness Month, a perfect time to highlight and be reminded of the hidden dangers lurking in our homes. Our pets rely on us to keep them safe, and even common household items can pose serious health risks if ingested. Let’s dive into some essential tips for creating a pet-safe environment, identifying hazardous substances, storing chemicals securely, and what to do in case of ingestion.

Creating a pet-safe environment
Creating a pet-safe environment is essential to prevent accidental poisoning and keep your furry friends healthy. Here are some key tips to make your home safer for pets:

1. Store Toxic Items Securely

• Keep medications, cleaning products, and pesticides in locked cabinets or high shelves. Over the counter and prescription drugs, such as ibuprofen and antidepressants, can cause severe poisoning.
• Store antifreeze, motor oil, and other chemicals in sealed containers away from pets.
• Avoid leaving human food, especially chocolate, grapes, onions, and xylitol (found in sugar-free gum and candies) within reach.

2. Choose Pet-Friendly Plants

• Avoid toxic plants like lilies (dangerous for cats), sago palms, aloe vera, and poinsettias.
• Opt for pet-safe greenery such as spider plants, bamboo, and Boston ferns.

3. Keep Trash and Recycling Bins Secure

• Use pet-proof trash cans to prevent access to spoiled food, bones, or hazardous materials.
• Properly dispose of expired medications, batteries, and sharp objects. Most recycling centers will accept used batteries and household chemicals, while pharmacies and hospitals often collect unused medications to dispose of safely.

4. Be Mindful of Household Items

• Keep small objects, such as batteries, coins, and rubber bands picked up and out of reach, as they can be harmful if swallowed.
• Store essential oils and scented candles safely, as some can be toxic to pets.
• Choose non-toxic, pet-friendly cleaners or rinse surfaces thoroughly after using harsh chemicals. Keep mop buckets and wet floors off-limits until dry.

5. Supervise Your Pet Outdoors

• Ensure your yard is free from toxic plants, pesticides, and fertilizers.
• Keep an eye out for mushrooms, which can be toxic if ingested.
• Steer your pet clear of harmful substances that may be encountered outdoors such as antifreeze spills, ice-melt treatments on roads and sidewalks, and litter.

6. Educate Family Members

• Teach kids and visitors about foods and items that are unsafe for pets.
• Keep an emergency contact list with your vet’s number and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) handy and inform guests of its location.

Signs of Poisoning
If your pet has been exposed to a toxic substance, they may show symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, lethargy, seizures, or difficulty breathing. Immediate veterinary care is essential to prevent serious complications.

What to Do in an Emergency
If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) immediately. Acting fast can save your pet’s life.

This Poison Prevention Awareness Month let’s commit to creating safe and toxin-free environments for our four-legged friends. By spreading awareness and taking these preventive measures, we can keep our beloved pets safe from accidental poisoning, ensuring they stay happy and healthy!