Symptoms of Dog Poisoning

Many things that are safe to humans are toxic to dogs, and vice-versa. However, some things are poisonous to the both, and as such, the symptoms of human poisoning can be similar to the symptoms of dog poisoning. The treatment for dog poisoning is also the same in many cases.

The general symptoms of dog poisoning are similar to humans, like vomiting, diarrhoea, lack of appetite and general lethargy. They are very noticeable, and if you do identify any of them you should contact a vet as soon as possible. It is important that your dog is treated in the right way, and the only person who can do that is someone with medical knowledge. Don't think that you can cure the dog yourself, as you most likely cannot.

Your dog could also develop breathing difficulties, fever or over-salivation. These are some of the more serious symptoms which should be dealt with very quickly. Try and identify the source of the poison. Has your dog been outside today? Or is it likely to have been something from indoors? Many human drugs are poisonous to dogs. If they have eaten some pills that you left on the side, they could have become poisoned.

Your dog could have eaten something out of a garbage bin that was toxic to them. Or perhaps they ate some poisonous plants. Whatever the cause, you should try and determine as closely as you can what poisoned your dog. This is essential to vets if they want to have the best chance of curing your dog.

Symptoms of plant poisoning in your dog are very diverse and could include: irritation around the dog's mouth, drooling from the mouth or nose, swelling around the mouth or throat, excessive thirst, an upset stomach leading to stomach pains, dilated eyes, difficulty with breathing, weakness, disorientation, shaking and an irregular heartbeat. In more extreme cases, the dog may lapse into a coma.

Some people recommend making the dog vomit to get rid of the poison, however this should not be done if the dog is unconscious or in a stupor. The best treatment for these symptoms of dog poisoning is to take the dog to a vet immediately.

Make sure you give your dog plenty of water. If you think your dog has consumed a lethal amount of poison, call 1-900-680-0000 in the US to contact the National Animal Poison Control Center.