This coming week is National Poison Prevention Week.  It is an important reminder for pet owners to survey their homes to establish and maintain a poison-safe pet environment.

The ASPCA found that last year in 2009 the top ten pet poisons were:

1. Human Medications
2. Insecticides
3. People Food
4. Plants
5. Veterinary Medications
6. Rodenticides
7. Household Cleaners
8. Heavy Metals
9. Garden Products
10. Chemical Hazards

The following are 5 Preventative measures and reminders:

1. Schedule regular/annual visits to veterinarian
2. Keep a Pet Safety Kit: can of soft pet food – turkey baster, bulb syringe or large medicine syringe – saline eye solution for flushing out eye contaminants and artificial tear gel for lubricating eyes – mild grease-cutting dishwashing liquid and rubber gloves for bathing – forceps to remove stingers – muzzle to keep animal from hurting you while he is excited or in pain – pet carrier for trips to your local vet
3. Don’t Panic
4. Contact emergency hotlines:

Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435

Pet Poison Help Hotline (800) 213-6680

5.  If your pet is seizuring, unconscious or losing consciousness, or having             difficulty breathing, contact your veterinarian immediately.

Resources: AAHA, ASPCA, Humane Society, Pet Poison Helpline