Health and Nutrition

Emergency and Life Threatening Health Concerns for Dogs

 

Pet Poisoning — Information & Resources

  • Pet Poison Helpline — 24/7 Animal Poison Control Center – 800-213-6680
    Pet Poison Helpline is a 24-hour animal poison control service available throughout the U.S., Canada, and the Caribbean for pet owners and veterinary professionals who require assistance with treating a potentially poisoned pet.
  • Emergency Instructions — What to do if your dog or cat has been poisoned – from the Pet Poison Helpline
  • ASPCA – Animal Poison Control Center

Specific Toxins

  • Sago Palm Plant — (Also known as Cycads) Highly toxic to people, dogs, cats, and horses — This is a very popular house and garden plant. All parts of this plant, including the seeds, leaves, and roots are highly poisonous to animals as well as people. If ingested, just one seed may be fatal to a dog. Within a few hours of ingesting, vomiting, diarrhea and neurologic signs such as ataxia and seizures can develop and finally, the toxin causes liver failure. If you suspect that your pet has ingested part of a Sago Palm, immediate veterinary attention is required. It is estimated that once clinical signs occur, one third of dogs will die from the poisoning. Before you bring any plant into your house, check to see if it is safe for pets and small children.
  • Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System — The Canadian Poisonous Plants Information System presents data on plants that cause poisoning in livestock, pets, and humans. The plants include native, introduced, and cultivated outdoor plants as well as indoor plants that are found in Canada. Some food and herbal plants are also included that may cause potential poisoning problems.
  • Chocolate is Sweet…But Can be Deadly
  • Pet Health Alert! Chocolate Poisoning In Dogs
  • XYLITOL: Danger or Delight For Dogs? — Xylitol is found in “sugar free” chewing gums, candies, and mints, as well as in a variety of other foods made with sugar substitutes. While xylitol may be wonderful for people, it is deadly for dogs.

Other Emergency Situations

Emergency Preparedness

Breed Listing

Note: The Health & Nutrition section of the Canada’s Guide to Dogs website is intended as a source of information only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional care, but as an aid to those seeking health and nutrition information. Always consult with your Veterinarian and other professionals about health related matters and any concerns or questions you may have concerning your dog’s diet and nutrition requirements. We do not endorse or recommend any one treatment or diet over another.

Quick Links

Get In Touch

— CanadasGuideToDogs.com is an Amazon Associate as well as a participant in various affiliate programs, as such fees are earned from qualifying purchases.