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“I had a cat eat a lego tire that caused an obstruction and a chihuahua mix that ate a pistachio shell that caused an obstruction. I also found a screw inside a golden retriever when the owners were concerned he ate a razor blade…luckily, there was no razor blade, and the screw was on its way out! We’ll never judge you for something your pet eats. Life happens, and we’re here to help.” – Dr Christina Suhr, Goodheart Cherry Creek
If you suspect your pet has eaten something they shouldn’t have eaten, don’t panic. Many pets eat toxins. We won’t judge you over the item or substance. Life happens. We’re here to help.
Step 1: Find the packaging.
It helps to have the product packaging so you can answer questions about ingredients. If you don’t have it, don’t worry – Goodheart and ASPCA can still help you out.
Your doctor can offer better solutions if he or she knows exactly what your pet ate or touched. Find the poison, toxin, chemical, or food packaging. Gather the following information:
-Active ingredient
-Percentage or concentration of active ingredient
-Size in ounces
For example, it helps to know the type of mouse poison your pet ate. This helps ensure your pet receives the correct, potentially life-saving treatment.
Step 2: Contact the ASPCA.
Goodheart recommends the ASPCA pet poison hotline over other hotlines. The team who answers the phone includes licensed veterinarians, veterinary technicians, and veterinary toxicologists.
ASPCA: (888) 426-4435
The hotline is open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
Step 3: Follow their instructions.
Do not induce vomiting in your pet unless told to do so. Caustic substances and chemicals can create more harm as your pet vomits.
Step 4: Save the case number and call Goodheart.
If needed, your veterinarian will call the helpline to discuss the treatment plan.
Step 5: Call us to tell us you’re on the way with your pet.
We’ll jump into action as soon as you arrive!
March is National Pet Poison Prevention Month. Yet, stay alert all year long. Keep these tips close at hand. And remember we’re here for you 24/7. Don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Know what to do should your cat or dog eat a poisonous human food, medicine, or house plant.