Keeping Your Doodle Safe During the Holidays: Recognizing and Preventing Poisoning

The week of Thanksgiving brings excitement, family gatherings, and delicious meals—but it also introduces unique risks for your furry friends. As doodle parents, it’s important to be extra vigilant about keeping harmful substances out of reach. Dogs are naturally curious, and even the most cautious pet owners can find themselves in a situation where their dog ingests something toxic. This blog will help you recognize common signs of poisoning in dogs, what to do in an emergency, and how to prevent accidents in the first place.

Recognizing Symptoms of Poisoning

When dogs ingest or inhale toxic substances, symptoms can appear quickly or take several days to show up, depending on the poison. Keep an eye out for these signs:
•   Vomiting
•   Diarrhea (sometimes bloody or discolored)
•   Loss of appetite
•   Pale or yellowish gums
•   Lethargy or weakness
•   Excessive thirst or urination
•   Bloody urine
•   Unsteady gait
•   Seizures, tremors, or hyperactivity

In severe cases, poisoning can lead to long-term effects such as anemia, cardiovascular issues, or even organ damage. If you notice any of these symptoms, act quickly.

What to Do in an Emergency

1.    Stay Calm and Act Fast
If you suspect your dog has ingested something dangerous, remove them from the source immediately. Avoid inducing vomiting unless directed by a veterinarian, as some substances can cause more harm coming back up.
2.    Contact a Veterinarian or Poison Control
Call your vet right away and provide as much information as possible about the suspected toxin and symptoms. If your vet’s office is closed, contact a pet poison hotline:
•   Pet Poison Helpline: 855-764-7661
•   ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center: 888-426-4435
Have these numbers saved in your phone for quick access.
3.    Gather Information
If possible, bring a sample of the substance, its packaging, or a photo of the label to the vet. Samples of vomit, stool, or urine can also help with diagnosis.

Preventing Poisoning in Your Home

Holiday gatherings often introduce new hazards, so take these precautions to pet-proof your home:

Human Foods

Many Thanksgiving staples are toxic to dogs, including chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and anything sweetened with xylitol. Keep leftovers and trash bins out of reach.

Medications

Store human and pet medications in sealed containers, well above your dog’s reach. Remember that “childproof” doesn’t mean “dog-proof.”

Plants and Decorations

Seasonal plants like poinsettias, holly, and mistletoe are harmful to pets. Be mindful of decorations and floral arrangements within sniffing or chewing range.

Cleaning Products

Use pet-safe cleaning products, especially if you’re preparing for guests. Keep your doodle out of rooms being cleaned, and ensure surfaces are dry before they’re accessible.

Outdoor Hazards

If you’re hosting guests, watch out for antifreeze spills or rodenticides that may have been used around your yard or neighborhood. Dogs are drawn to the sweet taste of antifreeze, which is highly toxic.

Key Takeaways

•   Be vigilant during holiday travel and gatherings, as dogs may encounter unfamiliar hazards.
•   Know the signs of poisoning and act quickly if your dog shows symptoms.
•   Prevent accidents by storing toxic substances securely and avoiding exposure to harmful foods, plants, and chemicals.
•   Keep emergency contact numbers handy and stay prepared to act calmly in the event of an incident.

This Thanksgiving, let’s ensure our doodles stay safe and healthy so we can enjoy the holiday season together. A little extra precaution can go a long way in preventing accidents and protecting your four-legged family members.

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Smeraglia Farm!