Mayfair in Tampa Palms

POISON-PROOF YOUR HOME FOR YOUR PETS

Mar 07, 2008

Ready to do a little homework, pet parents? National Poison Prevention Week is almost here─March 16 to March 22─and because our pets depend on us to keep them safe, we think it?’s the perfect time to review the harmful substances your furry explorers may encounter at home. Here are just a few ways to ensure that your household is pet poison-proof:

* Keep prescription and over-the-counter drugs such as painkillers, cold and flu preparations and antidepressants behind tightly closed cabinet doors.
* Make sure chocolate, coffee and other potentially dangerous foods are kept out of pets' reach.
* When using products to eliminate fleas, ticks and other pests, follow directions exactly. Be sure the item you?’re using has been formulated specifically for your pet, and check with your veterinarian before using it.
* Many common household plants such as lilies, azaleas and kalanchoe can cause surprisingly severe, even life-threatening effects in pets. Please check our complete lists of toxic and nontoxic plants.
* Take care to use cleaning products that have been proven safe for use around pets. If you do use bleaches, detergents or disinfectants, keep your pets away from the cleaned areas until the product has dried thoroughly, and be sure to store the products in a secure place.

Visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) online for lists of specific items that could be dangerous to pets. And if you fear your pet has been poisoned, don?’t panic. Call the APCC hotline at (888) 426-4435. Please note that a consultation fee for this service applies.