Top 5 Reasons to Call Poison Control

As a dog parent, it can be challenging to know when to call pet poison control experts, especially when each incident costs $85 and up. Luckily, the Link Smart Dog Tracker service plan includes FREE access to the Pet Poison Helpline giving our Link Pack members the support you need, whenever you need it. 

Know Your Dog

When you're a new puppy parent or even if you have an older dog, it can seem like everything they do requires a call or trip to the vet, but in most cases your anxieties may just be getting the best of you. Five key signs that it's probably best to call the professionals are vomiting, coughing up blood, pale gums, excessive thirst and urination.

Know Your Poison Risks

Dogs can be susceptible to poisons in the kitchen, bathroom, living room, utility room and basically every area of your home.

Even some common houseplants can pose a risk to your four-legged family members. Some houseplants that are toxic to dogs include:

• Pathos
• Aloe Vera
• Jade
• Snake Plants 

If you're looking for plants that are NOT toxic to your dog, try:

• Echeveria
• Spider Plants
• Bromeliad 

Other common pitfalls that many pet parents overlook are fragrance sprays and essential oils. Always ensure oils used in your home are dog-friendly. 

If you don't know if a substance or product is poisonous, our friends at Pet Poison Helpline have a handy guide to help.

Know Their Diet

The holidays are a peak time for pet poison incidents - when chocolates, pies, stuffing, and other goodies are readily within reach of your pet - but there's no time of year to let your guard down. Keep human foods out of reach and know if your dog has been caught in the "cookie jar".

Know What They Can and Can't Eat

Chocolate isn't the only food hazard for our dogs. Even commonly used items like onions can be a HUGE hazard for dogs when ingested. Their own food could also cause issues, depending on their general eating habits, which can change over time and as they move into their senior years.

Always steer your dog clear of common household foods like onions, chocolate, avocados, and grapes which are poisonous to your pup. 

Know Where Dangerous Items Are

Normal household hazards like medicine, plastic, air fresheners, and cleaning supplies are a threat to your dog's health. Be conscious of what you're using around your house, where it's stored, and that your dog isn't in the position to come in contact with something that could be deadly. Even seemingly basic medications for us (including Advil) can do damage to your best friend.

Some of the most common medications to ensure they cannot reach/get into include (but are not limited to): acetaminophen, cardiac medications and Pepto-Bismol. 

Just like a human child, making sure your home is dog-proofed is important in keeping them safe, healthy and happy.

Link users will find their complimentary direct line to the Pet Poison Helpline under Settings > Support > Link Concierge & Support.