Looking after your pet is not that different from looking after a new baby. Care has to be taken to keep your house and backyard as safe as possible and free from any dangerous objects and products. There are a number of items that can be poisonous to dogs and can cause different medical problems and even death. For a comprehensive list of household dangers and potential toxins, you can contact the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center. Following are some common poisons found in every home that you should protect your dog from:

• Plants – Though these plants may not be toxic to humans, they can cause problems such as cardiac arrest and renal failure in dogs. Plants like hibiscus, mistletoe, azalea, oleander, rhododendron and Japanese Yew should be planted in an unreachable location in your backyard so that your pet does not inadvertently dig them up and chew at them. If you find that your dog has eaten any of these plants, remove the plant from his mouth and rinse it out with water. Contact your vet immediately and inform him about what plant has been ingested to receive the proper care instructions to prevent poisoning.


• Food – Some food that humans eat is not suitable for pets either. For example, chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, coffee, and even milk may cause problems such as diarrhea, pancreatitis, vomiting, and stomach pain. Avoid giving your pet any form of alcohol as well as it can be lethal.


• Household products – Just as you would be vigilant with your child, poison-proof your home where your pet is concerned as well. Keep all cleaning products such as drain cleaners, insecticides, bleach, and antifreeze locked up in cabinets that are above counter level. Also keep an eye on your garbage and make sure there are no toxic substances thrown out carelessly.


• Medication – Medications meant for humans should not be given to dogs. For example, aspirin given to your pet can be lethal and drugs containing acetaminophen can lead to internal bleeding. Some vitamins can also lead to health complications so only give your pet medication prescribed by his vet. Medications for cats cannot be used for dogs or vice versa so keep all medications clearly labeled and stored safely.


• Intentional poisoning – There are a surprisingly high number of cases of intentional poisoning of pets. In such cases, a neighbor or a relative may poison your dog as a form of retaliation. If you suspect that your dog is at risk, you are well within your rights to contact the local authorities and register a complaint.

If you think your pet has been poisoned (intentionally or accidentally), call your vet immediately. You can also contact the National Animal Poison Control Center (NAPCC) at (888) 426-4435 in the US. The staff at the NAPCC is available around the clock and will talk you through the steps required to treat your poisoned pet. However, the best way to keep your dog safe from poison is by prevention. While it is not possible to be with your pet at all times and monitor his activities, with the help of GPS pet locators such as the SpotLite, you can track your dog 24/7. Once the device is activated, you will be informed when he moves out of your home or yard and you can track him in real time, thanks to the latest GPS technology. Knowing where your pet is at all times goes a long way in preventing your pet from doing something that he shouldn’t.