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NEW YORK, March 18, 2019 / PRNewswire / – The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) today launched National Poison Prevention Week (March 17 to 23) with the publication of its annual list of the main toxins. Data updated annually is an essential resource for pet owners, veterinarians and shelters across the country, contributing to the safety and health of animals. The APCC Call Center, which operates 24 hours a day and 365 days a year, has handled approximately 213,773 cases in 2018, an increase of approximately 17,000 from 2017, with calls being made in the past year. extending to 50 states and countries around the world.
"As animal owners, it is our responsibility to protect our pets from the potential toxins found around our homes," said Dr. Tina Wismer, Medical Director, ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center. "Remembering doing simple things like closing cabinet doors and keeping drugs and foods out of reach can keep our furry companions safe."
In 2018, over-the-counter medications for humans were at the top of the list. "Pet owners tend to view over-the-counter medications as less dangerous than prescription drugs, but that's not always the case," Wismer said. "Common household medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and cold and flu medications can cause life-threatening medical problems such as gastrointestinal ulcers and kidney failure in pets."
The rest of the top 10 elements of the 2018 list of major toxins include:
- Prescription Drugs – The APCC responded to 36,916 calls in the last year of animals ingested by pets. Medications for ADHD, antidepressants and heart medications make up the majority of these calls. It is essential for the health and well-being of your pet to keep all medications for humans out of the reach of the paws.
- Foodstuffs – Many foods can cause illness to your pet. The main culprits are grapes, raisins, onions and xylitol – a substitute for sugar. Each of these foods can cause serious symptoms in pets and can lead to life threatening conditions. For a more complete list of foods that may harm your pets, see here.
- Chocolate – Chocolate, in many different forms, is extremely dangerous because curious pets love the taste. The APCC receives an average of 60 cases per day of chocolate toxicity. Dark chocolate and baker's chocolate are the most powerful, but all types of chocolate can become toxic given their quantity.
- Veterinary products – Many pet medications come in chewable form that can be taken for delicious treats for your pets. Also be sure to treat these medications, such as joints and chewing allergies, as prescription drugs and keep them away from your pets.
- Household items – Cleaning products, fire logs and home improvement products such as paint and foams are extremely toxic to your pets. Make sure to always restrict access to these when you are away.
- Rodenticides – Exposure to rodenticides has increased over the past year to reach 6.3% of CCAC appeals. Do not forget that pets, as well as rodents, find baits very tasty. Ingesting baits for rats or mice can be deadly for our pets.
- Insecticides – Although exposure to rodenticides has increased, insecticide exposure has decreased in 2018. Stay away from pets and follow label directions when using insecticides. .
- Plants – Indoor and outdoor plants as well as bouquets can all be sources of potential problems for pets. The APCC received 11,857 cases of intoxication by domestic plants last year.
- Garden products – Many domestic animals find irresistible fertilizers. Make sure your pets do not help you when working on the lawn or in the garden with herbicides and soil improvements.
For more information on the ASPCA Animal Pest Control Center, please visit https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control. If you think that your pet has ingested a potentially toxic substance, call (888) 426-4435 or contact your local veterinarian as soon as possible.
Shareable infographic of the main toxins of 2018 (credit / ASPCA):
https://aspca.box.com/s/hxp6whi0xjo56vxsrfo2pozg9cntcsrt
For more information on the ASPCA, visit www.aspca.org.
About ASPCA®
Founded in 1866, the ASPCA® (American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals®) is the first organization to defend animal welfare North America and serves as the nation's main voice for animals. With more than two million supporters, the ASPCA's mission is to provide effective means of preventing cruelty to animals throughout its life. United States. As a 501 (c) (3) non-profit society, ASPCA is a national leader in the areas of anti-cruelty, community outreach and animal health services. For more information, visit www.ASPCA.org and follow ASPCA on Facebook, Twitterand Instagram.
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