Having a dog in the house is like having a child, where we “safe proof” every toxic thing that could harm them. Many household items, like cleaning solutions and food, could threaten our dogs ‘ health. If it’s your first time having one at home, we’re bringing you 10 toxic household items to keep off your pets.
10. Paint
Paint, especially older ones, contains lead and mercury that could seriously threaten your dogs. Even new paint contains volatile organic compounds and chemicals that could poison your dogs when they lick their paws after being exposed to paint. Inhaling them alone could also be a source of poison. Symptoms of poisoning from paint include vomiting and difficulty breathing.
9. Essential Oils and Air Freshener
Many essential oils in the market lack liver enzymes that could metabolize compounds. Certain scents, such as tea tree oil, eucalyptus, citrus oils, cinnamon, and ylang-ylang, are dangerous. Direct contact with their skin may cause irritation and chemical burns. Meanwhile, air fresheners contain phthalates and chemicals that could irritate a dog’s respiratory system and disrupt their hormone function.
8. Xylitol
If you keep xylitol or artificial sweeteners in your home, ensure they’re kept out of reach of your dogs. Once they ingest xylitol, it will cause a massive release of insulin, which will then lead to hypoglycemia within 10-60 minutes. Note that Xylitol can be found in breath mints, toothpaste, and mouthwash.
7. Medications
Keep your medications hidden, especially with curious dogs who might play with them. Human pain relievers such as ibuprofen and aspirin might cause kidney failure, liver damage, or ulcers in dogs when swallowed. This is also a reminder not to give human medication to dogs. Consult your veterinarian and follow their prescription.
6. Onions and Garlic
Commonly found in the kitchen, onions and garlic must be stored away from your dogs. They belong to the Allium family, which contains thiosulfates that may damage the red blood cells of dogs. Eventually, it may lead to hemolytic anemia. Note that breeds such as Akitas and Shiba Inus are more prone to onion toxicity.
5. Batteries
While you may think that dogs won’t feel the batteries lying around are food, curious dogs may do so. Once they swallowed and ingested a battery, dogs may experience pain, oral inflammation, or bleeding due to the battery acid exposure. Seek veterinary care immediately once you suspect your dog has swallowed one of your batteries.
4. Petroleum Jelly
A vanity staple, petroleum jelly is dangerous if your dog ingests them. Its texture is tempting for curious dogs, and once they end up licking and eating them, their health would be in danger. The main threat lies in its ability to cause gastrointestinal upset and potentially severe digestive blockages. When dogs ingest substantial amounts of petroleum jelly, it can coat the intestinal walls and interfere with normal digestion and nutrient absorption.
3. Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is used for newly pressed wood furniture, drapery, and upholstery. Once your dog chewed on these things with formaldehyde. Since they’re a foreign compound to a dog’s system, it could cause cancer and respiratory damage. Ensure your dog has toys and chewsticks to play with so they won’t ruin your furniture.
2. Household Cleaners
While ammonia and bleach may make your homes sparkly clean, they may not be fit for the health of humans and dogs. Keep them out of reach of your dogs, as this might be tempting for dogs to play with. When dogs are exposed to these cleaners through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, they can experience severe chemical burns, respiratory distress, and poisoning.
1. Plants
While plants may serve both to beautify and purify the air quality, some plants aren’t just made for a home with dogs. Note that plants like Sago Palm, Azalea, and Oleander are extremely poisonous to dogs. Once they ingested these plants, they may experience symptoms of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhea, or seizures.