Q&A

Q: Someone told me his dog almost died from eating a pack of gum.  Is that possible?

A: Yes. Unfortunately there are many dangers in our homes that can be lethal to our pets.

Some foods such as those containing xylitol (often in chewing gum) can be poisonous to pets.  Some plants, human medications, animal toxins, pool and yard supplies, contaminated ponds, citronella candles, some baits for insects snails and rodents, antifreeze, mothballs, and post-1982 pennies are a few of many *other potential threats that can be found in and around the home.

The holiday season holds additional hazards. Water from Hanukah bushes and Christmas trees may contain fertilizers and bacteria that could cause stomach upset. Glass ornaments, batteries, electric cords, chocolate, overeating, bones, and moldy or spoiled foods are other seasonal hazards. Raiding the trash may result in garbage can enteritis. 

Be especially careful of linear objects such as tinsel, ribbon, thread, string or tape which if ingested could open multiple holes in the intestinal tract.