poisonious plants to first aid

Good Morning everyone!

Part of our decorating and gift giving during the holidays usually includes some type of plant or flower. We need to be very careful because some traditional holiday plants such as Poinsettia, Mistletoe, and Holly are poisonous to Dogs and Cats.

Poinsettia is listed as poisonous because of the sap. If any part of the plant is ingested by a dog, cat or rabbit the animal may show signs of oral irritation by shaking its head, hyper-salivating or pawing at the head and mouth. The plant my also cause vomiting.

Holly and mistletoe can be poisonous if the berries are consumed in large amounts. For most this isn't an issue but for a puppy or unruly lab this might be a concern!

If your pet consumes these plants call your veterinarian immediately and follow their instructions. If the animal is vomiting or has diarrhea it may need fluids to prevent dehydration and correct any electrolyte imbalance.

ASPCA Poisonous Plants List

Have your vets phone number handy. I have not only my vet but 2 back ups saved in my cell phone just in case.

Another thing to keep in mind as we head into winter is the potential for bad weather. I don't mean the 3/4" of snow we usually see around here but what if we had to evacuate or a real storm knocked power out for a week? I've heard rumors of ice storms that did exactly that a few years ago. We should have a few things put together just in case.

* Pet first-aid kit and guide book (ask your vet what to include, or buy one online)
* 3-7 days worth of canned (can opener) or dry food (be sure to rotate every two months)
* Disposable litter trays (aluminum roasting pans are perfect)
* Litter or paper towels
* Liquid dish soap and disinfectant
* Disposable garbage bags for clean-up
* Food Bowls
* Extra harness and leash
* Photocopies of medical records in a waterproof container with a two-week supply of any medicine your pet requires (Remember, food and medications need to be rotated out of your emergency kit—otherwise they may go bad or become useless.)
* Bottled water, at least 7 days' worth for each person and pet (store in a cool, dry place and replace every two months)
* A traveling bag, crate or sturdy carrier, ideally one for each pet
* Flashlight
* Blanket (for scooping up a fearful pet)
* Recent photos of your pets (in case you are separated and need to make "Lost" posters)
* Especially for cats: Pillowcase, toys, scoopable litter
* Especially for dogs: Long leash, toys and chew toys, a week's worth of cage liner.

You should also have an emergency kit for the human members of the family. Items to include: Batteries, duct tape, flashlight, radio, multi-tool, tarp, rope, permanent marker, spray paint, baby wipes, protective clothing and footwear, extra cash, rescue whistle, important phone numbers, extra medication and copies of medical and insurance information.


If you have any questions or need help I'm always an email away. email Mike


mike
a tired dog is a happy dog