If a dog eats rat poison, what should you do? - briefly
If your dog has ingested rat poison, it is crucial to act swiftly and contact your veterinarian immediately. Do not attempt to induce vomiting or administer any medication without professional guidance.
If a dog eats rat poison, what should you do? - in detail
If your dog has ingested rat poison, immediate action is crucial. Rat poison contains anticoagulants that prevent blood from clotting, leading to internal bleeding and death if left untreated. Here are the steps to take:
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Identify the Poison: Look for signs of ingestion such as chewed or missing bait stations, or find any remnants in your dog's vomit or stool. Common anticoagulant rodenticides include brodifacoum, bromadiolone, and warfarin.
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Contact Your Veterinarian: Call your veterinarian immediately. Provide them with the details of what your dog has ingested and when it occurred. They will advise you on whether to induce vomiting or not. Do not attempt this without professional guidance as some substances can cause more harm when regurgitated.
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Inducing Vomiting: If advised by your vet, you can induce vomiting using hydrogen peroxide (3% solution). Give 1 teaspoon per 5 pounds of body weight, up to a maximum of 3 tablespoons. This should be done within two hours of ingestion for optimal results.
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Monitor Your Dog: Keep your dog calm and quiet. Monitor for any signs of distress such as lethargy, pale gums, blood in stool or vomit, seizures, or difficulty breathing. These are indications that the poison has started to affect your dog's system.
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Veterinary Care: Even if your dog seems fine after inducing vomiting, it is essential to take them to the vet for a thorough examination and possible treatment. Anticoagulant poisons can take several days to show symptoms. Your vet may administer vitamin K1 injections to counteract the effects of the poison over multiple days or weeks.
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Prevent Future Incidents: Ensure that all rat baits are securely stored and placed out of your dog's reach. Consider using pet-safe alternatives for pest control, such as snap traps or electronic devices.
By following these steps promptly, you can significantly increase the chances of your dog's full recovery from rat poison ingestion.