A Dog-Safe Home

It can seem daunting when you consider how many food and plant items can be hazards for dogs but with a little preparation and diligence, you can have a dog-safe house, inside and out.

Keep a List and Check It Often

Keep a list of toxic foods and plants for dogs. Be sure to check back regularly with your vet and online sources for the most up-to-date information. Some good resources are the ASPCA, and the Humane Society. Also, keep a list of a pet poison hotline, you vet's number and an emergency vet number by the phone at all times.

Hazards from Pharmaceuticals



There are some human medications that are safe for dogs, but many others can be seriously harmful to your dog. Even some veterinary drugs can be toxic if not used properly. Before medicating your dog, always contact your veterinarian for instructions. An accidental overdose can prove fatal depending on the substance. Also, remember that your dog might be curious and quite crafty when it comes to opening pill bottles. Keep ALL drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements out of reach.
Foods and Plants that are Poisonous to Dogs

The prospective dog owner plans ahead for their new dog. The seasoned dog owner knows that not everything can be planned for, but it is possible to plan ahead for a very serious and common emergency - poisonous hazards for dogs.

There are many toxic foods and plants for dogs. All of the toxins that affect dogs are too numerous to mention in an article so it is best to research anything you aren't sure about and ask your vet.

     Inside Plants Poisonous to Dogs

     Outside Plants Poisonous to Dogs

    
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 Aloe Vera     
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 Azaleas
    
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 Caladium     
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 Daffodils
    
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 Chrysanthemum     
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 Foxglove
    
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 Dumbcane     
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 Ivy
    
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 Elephant's Ear     
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 Morning Glory
    
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 Emerald Fern     
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 Nightshade
    
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 Hyacinth     
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 Oak
    
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 Philodendron     
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 Green Potato
    
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 Weeping Fig     
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 Rhododendrum
    
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 Yew     
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 Wisteria


     Human Foods That Poison Pets

    
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 Avocado: All parts are toxic to dogs
    
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 Chocolate: Contains Theobromine, a cardiac stimulant which can be fatal to dogs
    
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 Fruit Pits and Seeds: Most contain cyanide
    
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 Garlic: Contains Thiosulphate, though a small amount, so a lot would have to be ingested to be toxic. Keep in mind, it builds up in the system
    
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 Grapes: Affects a dog's kidneys
    
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 Macadamia Nuts: Affects the nervous system
    
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 Mushrooms: Affect the nervous system, kidneys and heart
    
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 Nutmeg: Can cause seizures and central nervous system damage
    
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 Onions: Contains same toxin as garlic, though in much larger amounts
    
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 Raisins: Same as grapes
    
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 Sugar-Free Foods: These contain Xylitol, which can cause liver failure in dogs
    
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 Tomatoes, Potatoes and Rhubarb: Parts of these contain oxalates, which can be toxic to dogs


     Holiday Hazards For Dogs
        The holidays are a very hectic time for dogs and dog owners alike and it's easy to miss some of the plants and foods poisonous to dogs specific to that time.
    Christmas: Many of the plants used for Christmas decorating are toxic to dogs, including Holly, Mistletoe and Poinsettias. It's best to find safe substitutes.
    Easter: Lilies are highly toxic to dogs, as are Tulips.
    Canada Day: Alcohol can be toxic to dogs so during your BBQs, do keep the beer to yourself.
    Halloween: We all know that chocolate is poisonous to dogs but excessive sugar from any source can be as well.
    Thanksgiving: Trim that turkey well and keep the gravy for the humans. Too much fat intake, especially over a short period of time, can be toxic