The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) handles thousands of cases of animal poisoning resulting from plants, pills and other ingested items every year. But not all pet poisons are so apparent—in fact, one major risk may be lurking where you least expect it: On food.
To arm you with potentially life-saving information, APCC wants to educate pet parents about the dangers of moldy food. Food mold, also known as Penicillium spp, is a fungus that grows on aging food. It is often visible to the naked eye, and, if ingested, can make a pet very ill.
While mold on dog food should certainly be avoided, the real danger occurs when pets get into household trash or eat garbage outside, including compost piles and moldy nuts or fruits that have fallen from trees. Fungal neurotoxins on old food can make your four-legged friend very ill. Common signs that your dog has eaten mold include:
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Muscle tremors
Seizures
Elevated body temperature
Symptoms can last 24-48 hours, and can be life-threatening if left untreated. Available treatments are primarily focused on controlling the tremors and keeping the pet cool and hydrated, however, the best way to protect your pet is to not let them eat moldy food at all. Keep an eye on your dog at all times, especially when outside, and avoid leaving your dog outside of your yard unattended.
If your dog is observed eating moldy food, contact your vet or APCC immediately to learn the correct action to take. Onset of signs can be very rapid, so if your dog is showing symptoms, take him to a veterinary clinic immediately.
If you think that your pet is ill or may have ingested any poisonous substance, please call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately!
Do not use food containers (such as cups or bottles) to store household cleaners and other chemicals or products. Keep all laundry products locked up, high, and out of the reach of children. Do not use bleach on food products. Avoid using household cleaners and disinfectants on hands or skin improperly.
Do not use food containers (such as cups or bottles) to store household cleaners and other chemicals or products. Keep all laundry products locked up, high, and out of the reach of children. Do not use bleach on food products. Avoid using household cleaners and disinfectants on hands or skin improperly.
Secure chemicals, medications, and hazardous foods out of reach using pet- or child-proof locks. Use caution and follow directions when using rodenticides, herbicides, or insecticides around people and pets. If you think your pet has been poisoned or ingested something toxic, seek veterinary help immediately.
Seek immediate medical help. For poisoning by swallowing and some inhalations: Check and monitor the person's airway, breathing, and pulse. If necessary, begin rescue breathing and CPR.
1. Know the pet poisons in your home. Dogs and cats can find trouble hiding anywhere, so it's important to keep household toxins locked away and out of pets' reach. From mothballs to mushrooms to medicines, make sure your pet doesn't have access to anything dangerous.
Introduction: My name is Rev. Leonie Wyman, I am a colorful, tasty, splendid, fair, witty, gorgeous, splendid person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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