Is Your House Dog Safe? Take a Fresh Look Around.

We've all heard safety tips about antifreeze, mistletoe and perhaps chocolate being dangerous to our pets, but snow globes? That was a new one. It turns out that snow globes may contain ethylene glycol which is the same poisonous substance found in some antifreeze. The same precautions you take for yourself and your family apply to your dog. Maybe even more so, since dogs have a tendency to chew, mouth and lick things they are curious about. Take a fresh look from the eye level of your dog to make your house pet safe. Here are a few reminders.

1. Pain and cold medicine like aspirin, acetaminophen, and ibuprofen are harmful to your pet. All human drugs including over the counter vitamins, ointments and creams should be kept away from your dog.
2. De-icing salts and cocoa mulch that may be used around the house are potentially deadly. Check the ingredients and choose other products that are environmentally friendly and safe. During the cold season when salt is on the ground, try dog clothing or boots. They offer great protection.
3. Garbage and leftovers can pose a problem. Many human foods are harmful to dogs. Raisins, chicken bones, grapes, and the leafy green parts of potatoes and tomatoes are dangerous.

Look around your home and proof it for your pet. At your next Vet visit, ask about the signs of potential poisoning and learn what other steps you can take to prevent that from happening.