How to Tell If My Dog Has Been Poisoned

A dog can be poisoned by exposure to a wide range of substances. Depending on the amount and type of toxin, the route of exposure, or the dog's size, the consequences will be more or less serious.

Symptoms will also vary depending on these factors. So, we might see digestive or neurological signs. Poisoning is usually a veterinary emergency, so let's take a detailed look at its symptoms.

When Can I Suspect My Dog Has Been Poisoned?

There are many situations in which a dog can come into contact with a toxic substance. Especially since they're very curious, exploratory animals, particularly as puppies. Poisoning symptoms can overlap with those of other illnesses.

But we can suspect poisoning if we notice the dog has been sniffing around fields or storage areas. In these places, contact with dead animals, insects, plants, or poisoned bait is possible.

Having rummaged through the trash, eaten something outside its usual diet, or opened a cabinet with cleaning products or medication are other warning situations. We should also consider whether we've given or applied any medication or anti-parasite product.

Insects, Amphibians, and Snakes Can Also Poison

Bites or stings, or eating certain animals, are also sources of poisoning. Bees, wasps, or ants cause painful swelling and redness at the sting site. If the dog gets many stings, it can go into shock as a result of these insects' toxins.

There are also some spiders whose bite is venomous to dogs. Scorpions, centipedes, and ticks should also be kept in mind. In addition, there are toads and salamanders toxic on contact, as well as venomous snakes.

Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs

Although some of these symptoms are common to other conditions, if we notice them while suspecting our dog may have been poisoned, we should see a vet urgently.

• Seizures / Tremors / Lack of coordination.
• General weakness and/or abdominal, joint, or muscle pain.
• Diarrhea.
• Excess salivation / Vomiting which, like the diarrhea, may contain blood.
• Bleeding, which may appear days after contact with the poison.
• Pale mucous membranes and skin.
• Thirst and increased urine output.
• Depression / Nervousness.
• Behavioral changes.
• Stiffness or restlessness in the legs.
• Garlic-smelling breath.
• Paralysis.
• Skin and/or mucous membrane irritation.
• Hallucinations.
• Breathing problems / Panting.
• Pupils that are constricted or dilated.
• Staring blankly into space, as if hypnotized.

Routes of Poisoning in Dogs

When we usually think about poisoning, we picture ingesting different substances. But contact poisoning is also possible. Even inhalation is another route through which toxins enter the body. This is how, for example, poisoning from gasoline, kerosene, or turpentine can occur.

As for ingestion, a very common cause of poisoning in dogs comes from medication given by their owners. This can be drugs meant for human use that dogs simply can't tolerate, or overdoses of veterinary products.

What Do I Do If My Dog Has Been Poisoned? First Aid

In some cases, inducing vomiting is recommended, but in others it can backfire. That's why the safest thing to do is to call the vet right away for instructions if we know what poisoned the dog. They'll tell us, if appropriate, how to safely induce vomiting.

This call doesn't replace an in-person visit, but it lets us start treatment while we make our way to the clinic. When poisoning happened through contact, we can wash the affected area with plenty of lukewarm water. We'll wear gloves. We should also contact the vet.

If a snake bite is suspected, we should keep the dog calm and carry it to the vet. Exercise increases venom absorption. The wound shouldn't be washed for the same reason. Ice shouldn't be applied either, nor should you cut around it or try to suck out the venom.

When Not to Induce Vomiting in a Poisoned Dog

Although we should always contact the vet, there are signs telling us we need to get to a clinic immediately, without inducing vomiting, since it would backfire. These cases are:

• When the dog has already vomited on its own.
• If it's unconscious or stuporous.
• During seizures.
• When it's struggling to breathe.
• If the substance ingested is a cleaner or a petroleum derivative.
• If we identify the poison and the label specifically states not to induce vomiting.
• If we suspect the dog may have swallowed a sharp object.

Treatment for Poisoned Dogs

Treatment for poisoning will vary depending on the substance and the dog's condition. The general rule is to go to the nearest vet clinic at the first symptom. It's important that, if we know what caused the poisoning, we tell the vet.

This way, treatment can start faster. This usually involves intensive care in hospitalization. Fluids are given intravenously. This increases urine output and helps eliminate more of the toxin.

Depending on the symptoms, different drugs will be included, such as corticosteroids, diuretics, vitamin K, or anticonvulsants. Transfusions may be needed in cases of bleeding. Of course, if there's an antidote for the poison, it will also be given.

Bibliography Carlson and Giffin (2002): Manual práctico de veterinaria canina. Madrid: Editorial el Drac.