Vets Warn Pet Owners About Poison Risks

8th June, 2009

Vets and animal care specialists across the UK are advising pet owners to be extra diligent over their animals' safety, in order to prevent injury and illness, as well as to avoid potential claims on their pet insurance.

The warning arrives after a spike in pet poisoning cases across the UK. Most recently, a couple from Hertfordshire, South England had to put their 13-month-old Staffordshire bull terrier down when he became severely ill. The cause of illness was found to be rat poison.

Another recent case involved a seven-year-old boy from Bath, whose two-year-old Springer Spaniel Boba was poisoned while outside. The dog was treated and survived, but not all pets experiencing poisoning are so lucky.

A spokeswoman for the People's Dispensary for Sick Animals said poisoning cases like these are fairly common, and warned pet owners to take extra care in keeping their pets safe at home and especially when out walking. She told Animalfriends.org in an interview:

She added that accidental cases of poisoning - involving common household and garden items such as slug and snail killer, antifreeze or even chocolate - can prove fatal for dogs.

Pet owners should ensure such items are always locked away and out of reach of pets. Moreover, as household pets commonly rummage in open cupboards if they get the opportunity, it's also advised that pet owners take extra care to securely shut cupboards and closets which contain anything that could poison their pet. If a pet does consume any household items or is poisoned, owners should contact a vet or emergency animal care center immediately. All pet owners should ensure they have a comprehensive pet insurance policy, in case their pet does become ill or injured.

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