Pet Poisoning
Poisoning, or Possible Poisoning is a Worry for Pet Owners
If you believe your pet has been poisoned, or ate something poisonous, or just ate something, and you do not know if it is poisonous, Dr. Springer 1 (877) DR TRULI is your first source of information!
Call right away to find out if there is basic first aid you should do at home before/or while driving to the veterinary hospital.
National Animal Poison Control Hotline: (888) 426-4435
For $65, you get:
This service is staffed by board-certified veterinary toxicologists. They can provide information and advice about a specific toxin or suspected toxicity. A credit card is required, it is a toll-free call, but there is a US$65 fee as of October, 2014. They can provide specific advice, and follow-ups with your veterinarian as needed for that fee.
The ASPCA Hotline advises to go directly to your emergency hospital if your pet is having seizures, losing consciousness, or has lost consciousness, or is having difficulty breathing.
Information Your Vet and the Poison Control Expert Will Need:
If these symptoms are not present, you should have time to call the hotline yourself. You will need to let the consultant know the :
- the species, breed, age, gender (sex), weight, and how many of your pets are involved
- the symptoms
- the potential toxin, the name (if known), the amount involved and the time since first exposure
- if you have the container or wrapper, bring it to the vet hospital for reference. also collect in a new (clean) sealed plastic bag anything vomited up or chewed up
Write Down Your Case Number!
The phone consultation could answer your questions and prevent a veterinary visit. If a trip down veterinary lane is required, write down the Case Number # the Hotline will give you. They will speak directly to your veterinarian to offer further advice regarding your pet’s case.
Starting Points for Research Regarding Poisoning and Toxicitities
Veterinary Medical Information Including Toxins
Free online access the the Merck Veterinary Manual.
United States National Library of Medicine, Toxicology Database Search.
Poisonous Plants, Pictures, Veterinary Information
University of Pennsylvania, Computer Aided Learning Projects, Poisonous Plants
Remember, if in doubt, call 1 (877) DR TRULI!
Dr. Sandra Truli Springer, VMD, CVA, CVFT, CVTP, CVCH, CTCVMP
“Truli holistic veterinary services” | Care provided in your home!
Greater Tampa Bay, Florida, USA
Call toll-free 1 (877) DR TRULI | (877) 378-7854
