Summer is here, and picnics with lots of yummy treats abound. Many of us are very tempted to indulge our pets with tastes from our party foods. But, before doing that, we MUST consider the dangers of some of the foods. STOP and think about what items are possible toxins and can harm our beloved, four-legged family members.

The top ten dog toxins that are listed by the Pet Poison Helpline include:

1. Chocolate

2. Caffeine and caffeine pills

3. Rodent Poisons

4. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen

5. Xylitol (the sweetener used in candy and sugar-free gum)

6. Anti-depressant medications or any medication

7. Fertilizers (Better to have a not-so-perfect lawn than one that will harm our pets)

8. Grapes and raisins

9. Decongestants

10. Vitamin D overdose

The sun also can be dangerous, and dogs are susceptible to sun burns. Overheating, heat strokes, and dehydration are other real threats to our pets' lives, and we must take precautions. Of course, leaving our pets in cars is absolutely out of the question!! Sure, it's fun to take them everywhere with us, BUT having them alive with us is a much better than the momentary pleasure that could turn deadly in a matter of short minutes.

NEVER exercise your pet in the heat of the day. Wait until cool evening hours or get up early before the temperatures get hot.

Provide plenty of fresh water. Several bowls scattered throughout the home AND outside are extremely important.

If your pet is overheated, wait to feed until he cools down. Bloat is lethal.

Keep the Pet Poison telephone number posted in a place that you don't have to go searching. 1-800-213-6680 and www.petpoisonhelpline.com are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. There is a fee for each incident but well worth the cost to save a life.

With great care and thoughtful planning, you and your wonderful pets will be better able to enjoy a safe summer!

Posts by:

Pet Health Network Contributors

Dog Toxins & Poisons

After a long winter, we’re sure that you’re ready to get outside with your dog. While we couldn’t agree more, don’t overlook these 9 hazards of the season.

1. Ticks and Tick-borne Disease

Ticks are more than just creepy; they can spread a number of different diseases that affect both pets and people: Lyme disease, ehrlichiosis, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, anaplasmosis, tularemia, and babesiosis. The best way to protect your pet is with preventative treatment. Ask your veterinarian for advice and click here to learn more about ticks and the diseases they spread.

Also check out this article: New Study Shows Link Between Ticks and Kidney Disease

2. Antifreeze

Antifreeze is extremely dangerous to pets because most types have a sweet smell and taste—dogs tend to dive right in and lap it up. Because of this, antifreeze poisoning is one of the most common forms of poisoning in pets. Fortunately, “pet-safer” types of antifreeze that are not as attractive to pets are available. Beware, antifreeze is not the only garage hazard.

3. Heartworm

Heartworm disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. It is a serious disease that primarily affects the heart and lungs, but can also affect the liver, kidney, eyes, and central nervous system; if left untreated, it can cause death. Fortunately, effective preventatives are available.

4. Fertilizers and Mulch

According to the PetPoisonHelpline, most fertilizers contain a wide assortment of potentially toxic substances including iron and nitrogen. They could also have pesticides, fungicides, or herbicides. Even if the chemicals don’t poison your pet, large amounts of fertilizer could result in gastrointestinal or pancreatic problems.

5. Metaldehyde (Slug Bait)

Snail bait represents a major risk for dogs and cats and is a more common source of poisoning than you may expect. Snail and slug bait products typically contain the poison metaldehyde, and they taste sweet to pets. It’s important that you know the symptoms of metaldehyde poisoning in case your pet is exposed.

6. Bee Stings

Like people, some dogs can have an allergic reaction to bee stings, especially if stung by multiple bees. Talk to your veterinarian about how you can keep your pup safe from bee stings, and what to do if your dog is stung.

7. Snakes

There are 20 species of venomous snakes in North America, and they are found in every state except Alaska, Hawaii, and Maine. A rattlesnake can bite your dog even if the meeting is not face-to-face. Rattlesnakes can strike as far as half of their own body length. Although they usually warn before striking by rattling their tail, they don't always. Learn more about venomous snakes here.

8. Thawing Ponds

Your dog may be accustomed to taking walks over ice covered lakes, rivers and ponds. As the ice begins to thaw, the new dangers presented by exposed water are likely not going to be apparent to him. By keeping your dog on a leash you can protect him from falling through the thin ice.

9. Ivermectin

Horse dewormers often contain ivermectin; it’s also used in small doses to kill parasites in dogs. Toxicity can occur if a dog is given an excessive dose of the medication. To prevent ivermectin toxicity keep horse products out of his reach and only administer the prescribed amount of heartworm medication as instructed by your veterinarian.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.

Reviewed by:

Bill Saxon DVM, DACVIM, DACVECC

Saving Our Pets' Lives

Nine Springtime Hazards for our Pets