Animal Poisons Helpline | Veterinary surgeon

Animal Poisons Helpline

Phone: +61 1300 869 738

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25.01.2022 The Animal Poisons Centre team are working tirelessly around the clock to improve outcomes for poisoned animals. Two weeks ago, we rolled out an automated and intuitive SMS follow up service. All pet owners that call the Animal Poisons Centre now receive an SMS asking if their pet developed any further symptoms after the call. The timing of the SMS is dependent on the poison involved (and when symptoms are expected to occur). Responses are automatically integrated into the ca...se record, and when further symptoms have occurred, cases will be marked for follow up by one of our poisons specialists. This de-identified outcome data assists us in continuing to refine our management of poisoned animals, and ultimately translates into better outcomes for poisoned pets. With over a 60% response rate so far, we would like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who has taken the time to reply. If your pet has been poisoned, you can call the Animal Poisons Centre for free advice on 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand).

23.01.2022 ANZAC biscuits are one of our favourite treats and we expect many families will enjoy these biscuits on this day of National remembrance. But what about our canine family members? We are certain they will also enjoy an oatmeal biscuit but just make sure that any variation on the traditional recipe does not contain raisins, chocolate or xylitol sweetener. These biscuits can also be high in butter and sugar and may upset some dogs tummies, leading to vomiting, diarrhoea and... lack of appetite for a day or so. Therefore, how about baking a more dog-friendly version of this treat? The following recipe does away with the cups of sugar and butter. These biscuits got the tick of approval from our Chief Veterinary Officer's two terriers; one of whom is a fussy eater so they must be yum! If your dog has a sensitivity to wheat a different flour that your veterinarian has recommended could be used. You may also have seen dog biscuit recipes that contain peanut butter; if using peanut butter just check that it does not contain xylitol. Golden Oatmeal Dog Cookies Makes 12 Ingredients: 1 Tbsp water tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda) cup desiccated coconut 4 Tbsp golden syrup 1 cup plain or wholemeal flour 1 cup rolled oats 2 egg whites, lightly beaten Method: Preheat the oven to 160C Combine the oats, flour and coconut in a medium bowl Heat the syrup in the microwave just enough to make it runny (10-15s is probably enough) Mix the soda and boiling water together and add to the syrup Add the syrup mixture to the dry ingredients, then add the egg whites and mix until well combined Roll spoonfuls of the mixture into balls and place onto a baking-paper covered oven tray Press down on each ball to flatten as the mixture will not spread much Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes Cool on the tray Give one to your good boy or good girl! As with all foods; they should be consumed in moderation Store in an airtight container.

23.01.2022 Today we take time to remember all pets who have crossed the Rainbow Bridge. By thinking of them we honour the significance of their lives, the joy they brought and the love we shared. Many people have lost a pet from having been poisoned. We are thinking of you today as we carry on our work to improve the outcomes for animals that have been exposed to a poison. Our thoughts are also with those who have been parted from their pet not through death but through disappearance or... having to part with them due to personal circumstances. How will you remember your pet today? Please feel free to share a photo of your pet with us and some words about them.

22.01.2022 Did you know that Sago palms and other cycads are highly toxic to dogs? Many dog owners that have cycads growing in their garden are not aware until it is too late. The Animal Poisons Centre has recently been involved in the management of several unfortunate cases of Sago palm poisoning. We believe this post serves as a timely reminder that the most effective treatment is prevention. Cycads contain a toxin called cycasin, which is broken down by bacteria in the gastrointestin...al tract to methylazoxymethanol (MAM for short!). MAM is responsible for most of the toxic effects seen in cycad poisonings. Ingestion of any part of the plant can result in poisoning. The seeds are particularly toxic, and ingestion of even small quantities can result in severe poisoning or death. Signs of poisoning include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness, weakness, coma, seizures, and liver failure. Whilst there is no specific antidote for cycad poisoning, seeking urgent veterinary assessment can be lifesaving. Timely veterinary assessment will allow your veterinarian to consider therapies that reduce toxin absorption from the gastrointestinal tract. The provision of supportive therapies such as intravenous fluids, stomach protectants, liver protectants and anti-seizure medications may be required. If you are a dog owner and have a Sago palm or any other cycads growing in your garden, consider removing the plant or at least restricting access to it. If your pet has eaten something they should not have, you can call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ). Our service is free for all pet owners. See www.animalpoisons.com.au for more information.

22.01.2022 Almost all plants that arise from bulbs or corms have the potential to be poisonous if ingested by your pet. These include daffodils, jonquils, tulips, hyacinths, iris, bluebells, crocus, amaryllis, gladiola, alliums, and lilies. All parts of these plants, but especially the bulbs, contain toxic substances which irritate the gastrointestinal tract causing drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. These signs can lead to secondary complications such as lethargy and ...dehydration. Dogs and cats tend not to chew the leaves, stems or flowers of these plants when planted outside. If they do, only very mild signs of poisoning would be expected unless large quantities are ingested. However, if your pet chews on or eats a bulb, signs could be much more severe including an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure and seizures. Dogs in particular might play with a bulb and bite into it mistaking it for a toy. Dogs might also dig bulbs up in the garden especially if fertilisers have recently been added to the soil. Special mention must be made of lilies of the Lilium or Hemerocallis varieties. All parts of these plants, even the pollen, are highly poisonous to cats. Kidney failure can result from merely biting into a leaf or flower. Unless you have a very inquisitive pet, we do not think it is necessary to remove all bulb plants from your garden or home, however do be mindful of the following: If your dog is a digger, cordon off bulbs or plant them in an area your pet can not access. If digging up bulbs or storing them, keep your pet away until they have been replanted or stored securely. Do not allow pets to drink water from vases that have contained these plants. It is safest to never have Lilium or Hemerocallis lilies in a home with cats. If your cat is solely an indoor cat, any greenery introduced might get a nibble. Ensure alternative safe greens are available at all times, such as pet grass, to reduce the temptation. If you think your pet has ingested a spring bulb, please call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ). We can risk assess your pet’s exposure and let you know if they require urgent veterinary treatment. The Helpline service is free for all pet owners. Thank you to our platinum sponsor Hill’s Pet Nutrition for sponsoring this important post. Their support helps to keep this service FREE for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand. Hill's Pet Nutrition: Premium pet food backed by science. From their days as puppies and kittens to their years as senior dogs and cats, the Hill's range of biology-based nutrition stays a step ahead for differences you can see, feel and trust. Visit www.hillspet.com.au to learn more.

21.01.2022 "Help! My dog ate..a sock, compost, rocks, laundry powder, a plant, my medication. Some dogs (and cats) just cant help themselves; they sniff out 'dangerous' food and non-food items, then swallow them with no thought to the consequences. Two big concerns with this behaviour are the risk of poisoning and the risk of intestinal blockage. We asked Dr Jacqui Ley, a specialist in veterinary behaviour, to share her knowledge and experience on why some dogs and cats choose to ea...t dangerous items and what can be done to prevent the behaviour to keep your pet safe. See her thoughts at animalpoisons.com.au/news/jacqui-ley This is a must read for all pet owners! Please share with your family and friends and help us in our mission to prevent animal poisonings. If your pet has eaten something they should not have, or you are unsure if there could be a problem, call us on 1300 TOX PET (1300 869 738) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners.

20.01.2022 Redback spiders (Latrodectus hasselti) tend to live in close association with people, but prefer dry, dark areas where they will not be disturbed. This means they are often found lurking in garden sheds and garages. The female redback spiders are most commonly recognised, having slender black legs and a black to brown body the size of a large pea with a distinct red to orange stripe down the centre. Males are less boldly coloured, often light brown, and smaller in size (3-4mm...) and are of less medical importance due to their much smaller fang size. The venom contains -latrotoxin which affects the nervous system and muscles. Many bites may be dry-bites where no venom is injected, however a bite where venom is injected can be life-threatening for a small animal. Early signs in small animals include vomiting, diarrhoea, pain and restlessness. Progressive symptoms may include increasingly severe pain (which typically spreads away from the bite site), muscular cramping, agitation, increase in heart rate and increased blood pressure. Cats are particularly sensitive to the venom, and can then go on to develop paralysis, inability to breath, cardiac failure and death. To avoid spider bites in pets, keep your shed and garage neat and tidy and avoid stacking items too close together, try to have these areas well-lit with natural light and dont let your pets into these areas (sheds and garages often have other poisons so this is a good general rule for pet safety). Clean outdoor furniture and building eaves/verandas regularly to remove webs and spider sacs, pack away childrens toys that are not used regularly, take to the tip any items stored in yards that are not needed (e.g., tyres, old wood piles), clean up leaves and sticks and remove them from pet accessible areas. Many of these measures are also good for preventing snake bites too. If you suspect your pet has been bitten by a spider, please call us on 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand) for advice. Our service is free for all pet owners.

19.01.2022 Have a question for us about your pet and poisons? Put your question in the comments below! If you have the same question as someone else, like their question. In the second half of this year, the team at the Animal Poisons Centre will create a series of short videos to answer your questions! We will prioritise questions with the most likes.... Thank you for helping with our mission to prevent animal poisonings through education.

17.01.2022 With the recent investigation of 68 dogs in Victoria being accidentally poisoned through eating horse meat contaminated with indospicine, the Helpline has had a lot of enquiries from the public about what this is and how they can keep their pets safe. Indospicine is a natural toxin produced by Indigofera plants. There are over 60 species of native Indigofera found in animal grazing regions of Australia, however the most toxic seems to be Indigofera linnaei which is commonly f...ound in northern regions SA, NSW, WA and most of QLD and the NT. These plants are readily eaten by livestock such as cattle, sheep, horses and camels. These animals do not develop extensive liver damage like dogs but they can be poisoned from other active compounds in the plants (e.g., neurological effects seen in Birdsville horse disease). Livestock that have grazed on Indigofera plants accumulate the toxin indospicine in their tissues (including muscle). These animals may then be transported to knackeries that supply fresh meat for pet food. When dogs consume this meat containing indospicine it is thought to interfere with the body’s ability to incorporate the essential amino acid arginine into proteins needed in the liver. This leads to dysfunction of the liver and in severe cases liver failure causing death. The unique sensitivity of dogs to this toxin was first reported over 30 years ago. Early signs of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhoea, loss of appetite and lethargy. Advanced cases may have jaundice (yellowing of the skin, gums and whites of the eyes) and bruising/haemorrhage. It is imperative that veterinary treatment is sought as soon as you suspect your pet has ingested contaminated meat or if your pet seems unwell. Unfortunately cooking or freezing the meat has no impact on the toxicity of indospicine. Therefore, if you feed your pet fresh or frozen pet meat make sure you know where the animal has come from and the species of animal. So far, reports of poisoning have come from the ingestion of horse and camel meat. Was this post helpful to you? If so, please consider supporting the Helpline so that we can continue providing our life-saving animal poisoning initiatives: https://animalpoisons.com.au/support Don’t miss the next pet poison alert! Visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date to subscribe to our monthly newsletter and receive updates and alerts directly to your inbox. This post has been gratefully sponsored by a grant from @AnimalWelfareVictoria

17.01.2022 Whilst calls to the Animal Poisons Centre regarding toothpaste ingestion are not particularly common, it can potentially be a concern if large enough amounts are ingested. Most toothpastes contain some form of fluoride such as sodium fluoride or sodium monofluorophosphate. Whilst fluoride is great for our teeth, the ingestion of large amounts can result in poisoning. Signs of poisoning in dogs can include significant gastrointestinal upset and with large amounts, a lowering o...f the calcium levels in the blood which can affect the heart. Some toothpastes also contain xylitol which is highly toxic for dogs. Even small ingestions can potentially result in life-threatening low blood sugar levels. Larger ingestions of xylitol have been associated with liver damage. The risk of poisoning will depend on the concentration of fluoride compounds and xylitol in the product, the amount ingested and of course the weight of your dog. If your pet has ingested toothpaste or any other dental products, please call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (Australia) or 0800 869 738 (New Zealand) for advice. Our service is free for all pet owners.

17.01.2022 With many of our communities able to celebrate Fathers Day this weekend, we anticipate an increase in calls about the following hazards to pets. Check out the list, keep an eye out for them at home and keep your pet safe: - High fat foods (e.g., pork crackling, sausages, drippings from barbeques, processed meats, etc) - Nuts (especially macadamia, pistachio, pecans and walnuts)... - Skewered foods - Xylitol (an artificial sweetener found in confectionary and baked goods) - Chocolate - Alcohol - Grapes, raisins and sultanas - Onions, garlic and chives (especially leftover food that may contain them, as they will be particularly attractive to pets) - Batteries - Ribbons and string (e.g., from gifts) - Human medications (especially if there are visitors entering your home, they may keep medications in their bags or place them on a bedside table) If you think your pet has been exposed to any of these items, call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners. You can learn more about what we do at www.animalpoisons.com.au

16.01.2022 Winter is upon us and the cold weather brings seasonal pattern changes to potential hazards for your pet. Read on to learn more about hand warmers, winter plants, antifreeze, vitamin D supplements, cold and flu remedies and pesticides. Hand, foot and body warmers these disposable products contain iron which can be highly toxic if ingested. Early signs of iron toxicity can include severe vomiting and diarrhoea, which can escalate and become life threatening. Plants some da...ffodils, daphne and Autumn crocus are flowering now. All parts of these plants are poisonous if ingested. Mushrooms are also still actively growing; please be cautious and keep an eye on your pet whilst walking them and where possible remove any mushrooms from your yard before your pet has a chance to play with or eat them. A mycology service to vets and pet owners is available if you would like to have any mushrooms on your property identified to know if you should be concerned: https://animalpoisons.com.au/mushroomidentification Antifreeze contain varied concentrations of ethylene glycol or other toxic glycols. Many animals will voluntarily drink antifreeze if spilled or leaks onto garage floors or driveways. Even small ingestions in animals can result in severe or fatal poisoning due to kidney failure. Vitamin D supplements ingestion can cause a life-threatening increase in blood calcium levels which can affect every organ in the body and be fatal if treatment is not started promptly. Cold and flu medications: contain a range of drugs, many of which can be poisonous. Pseudoephedrine (a decongestant) can cause stimulatory signs such as agitation, hyperactivity, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure and tremors. Dextromethorphan (a cough suppressant) can cause a range of signs; from lethargy and wobbliness through to stimulatory signs similar to those described for pseudoephedrine. Paracetamol is very dangerous, especially for cats, and may cause liver failure and changes to red blood cells. Ibuprofen may lead to stomach ulcers, vomiting, kidney damage and seizures. Small ingestions of nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline and xylometazoline can cause slowing of the heart, slow breathing, low blood pressure and possibly coma. Herbal cold and flu remedies: may contain the sweetener xylitol which can cause dangerously low blood sugar levels and liver damage in dogs. Pesticides rodents and insects can seek shelter inside our warm homes leading to increased pesticide usage by households. If pesticides must be used, use pet safe options if available or ensure they are put out and stored in areas your pet can not access. If you think your pet has been exposed to any of these products, call us on 1300 TOX PET (1300 869 738) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners.

16.01.2022 Intermittent COVID lockdowns have seen many of us taking up new hobbies, including home baking. But did you know that raw bread dough can be toxic to pets? Bread dough poisoning occurs when uncooked or unbaked bread dough, pizza dough, or roll products (including sourdough or starters) that contain live yeast are ingested in the process of rising. Once in the warm, moist environment of the stomach; live yeast within the dough produces ethanol (alcohol). The ethanol is rapid...ly absorbed and can result in varying degrees of alcohol intoxication. Pets can appear unsteady on their feet and disoriented. Large ingestions can result in more significant effects including low blood sugar, temporary blindness and potentially coma. As the bread dough rises within the stomach, it can also result in gastrointestinal distention and obstruction. Affected animals may begin to experience abdominal pain and start vomiting as the dough expands. Significant dough expansion can be life-threatening and require surgical intervention. Never feed any quantity of raw bread dough to your pets and ensure rising dough is kept out of reach of curious paws. Keep in mind that some pets can reach bench tops, particularly when attracted by food. If your pet has ingested bread dough, please phone the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for advice immediately. The Helpline is a free service for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand. Thank you to our platinum sponsor Hill’s Pet Nutrition for sponsoring this important post. Their support helps to keep this service FREE for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand. Hill's Pet Nutrition: Premium pet food backed by science. From their days as puppies and kittens to their years as senior dogs and cats, the Hill's range of biology-based nutrition stays a step ahead for differences you can see, feel and trust. Visit www.hillspet.com.au to learn more.

16.01.2022 The Animal Poisons Centre is often called about dogs and cats that have eaten medications and household items that can damage their kidneys. Some pets may develop life-long chronic kidney disease from such a once-off ingestion. Prevention is always best check this list to see if your home is kidney safe for your pet. NSAIDs (ibuprofen, diclofenac, meloxicam, etc) the number one kidney killer in Australia and New Zealand. All non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAI...Ds) have the potential to cause kidney damage depending on the dose and your pets individual sensitivity. This is why NSAIDs for people should never be given to a pet without first checking with your vet. Those NSAIDs prescribed for a pet, should be given at the labelled dose. Dogs are curious and if allowed access to bottles of tablets are likely to eat all of them; especially if they are chewable veterinary prescription NSAIDs. Grapes and sultanas (dogs) they taste sweet and dogs naturally have a sweet tooth (have you noticed this?). However, grapes and their derivatives (e.g., sultanas, raisins, currants) can cause kidney damage in dogs. The dose at which this might occur is very unpredictable and therefore we recommend avoiding feeding grapes and grape derivatives to dogs. Lilies (cats) specifically the Lilium and Hemerocallis species. Every part of these plants is considered poisonous to cats including the vase water and the pollen which a cat may get on their face and mouth just from sniffing the flowers. It is best to avoid these plants in houses with cats. Vitamin D3 many people take vitamin D supplements and multivitamins that contain vitamin D. Vitamin D derivatives can also be found in some psoriasis creams and uncommonly in some rodent baits. Dogs in particular are sensitive to the extra vitamin D contained in these products keep them well away from your pooch. Ethylene glycol common in antifreeze/coolant (and other mechanical fluids), it is extremely poisonous to both dogs and cats and they readily drink it from puddles on the floor. Keep bottles locked away and high up on shelves and attend to any leaked or spilt fluid straight away. If you think your pet has been exposed to any of these items, call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners.

14.01.2022 Many dogs are tempted to play with salbutamol inhalers. They are often left on bedside tables or in bags on the floor. They are made of plastic, like many toys, and have saliva on them which makes them smell good. Salbutamol is helpful for people with asthma as it causes the airways to relax and open up. This occurs through activation of beta receptors (present in many places around the body - not just in the airways). Most salbutamol metred dose inhalers contain 200 sprays, ...and therefore a punctured inhaler can rapidly deliver very large amounts of medication directly into a dogs mouth and lungs, leading to life-threatening poisoning. When this occurs, there is an overstimulation of the beta receptors as well as a significant movement of potassium into cells throughout the body, leading to dangerously low blood potassium levels. These effects can result in several complications including a fast heart rate, low blood pressure, a change in the way the heart beats, agitation and possibly damage to the heart muscle, seizures and weakness or paralysis which can affect breathing. To avoid accidental poisoning of your pet, keep inhalers out of reach and preferably locked away in a cabinet. Keep bags closed and off the ground. Never give your pet a human medication unless instructed to do so by your veterinarian. If your pet has been playing with an inhaler, or punctured one, call us for advice even if your pet appears normal. The service is free for all pet owners: 1300 869 738 (in Australia) or 0800 869 738 (in New Zealand).

14.01.2022 An Antarctic cold air blast is causing our followers in the South to light their fireplaces to keep warm. It sounds like a simple enough activity, but one that might expose pets to a number of poisonous hazards. If you do have a fireplace, make sure you are familiar with the products you use and keep the dangerous ones out of reach of pets. Matches Match heads contain chemicals which if ingested in large quantities can cause changes to the function of red blood cells along... with gastrointestinal upset such as vomiting and diarrhoea. The wooden stick itself is not poisonous but may be a choking hazard. Firelighters and starters May contain hydrocarbons that cause irritation of the gastrointestinal tract when swallowed. The ingestion of large fragments or entire blocks may result in gastrointestinal obstruction. Wood Avoid green wood (non-aged/unseasoned wood), driftwood and any timber that has been painted, lacquered, stained or treated. Burning these types of wood may release toxic chemicals and excess smoke which can be harmful if breathed in. Fire crystals These novelty products can be sprinkled into a burning fire to change the colour of the flame. Whilst they may make a great party trick, they are very toxic if ingested and should be kept well out of reach of pets. Carbon monoxide Last but certainly not least, carbon monoxide is an odourless, colourless gas that can kill pets (and humans). Never use an outdoor heater or BBQ indoors and if you use a gas heater, have it serviced regularly. If your fireplace has a damper, keep it open whilst the fire is burning and until all embers are extinguished. Investing in a carbon monoxide detector is also a good idea. If you think your pet has been exposed to any of these items, call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners.

13.01.2022 Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta) and other cycads can be lethally poisonous to dogs. We have posted about cycads previously, however as we continue to receive reports of dogs being poisoned by these plants, this post serves as a reminder to all pet owners to be incredibly careful around these plants. Cycads contain a toxin called cycasin, which is broken down by bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract to a compound known as MAM. MAM is responsible for most of the toxic effects see...n in cycad poisonings. Ingestion of any part of the plant can result in poisoning. The seeds are particularly toxic, and ingestion of even one seed can result in severe poisoning or death. Signs of poisoning include abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, drowsiness, weakness, seizures, coma, and liver failure. In some published case series, the survival rate in dogs poisoned by Sago Palm is reported to be as low as 50%. Many dog owners that have cycads growing in their garden are not aware of the significant risk until it is too late. Whilst urgent veterinary assessment can be lifesaving, the most effective treatment is prevention as there is no specific antidote for cycad poisoning. Veterinary treatment for cycad poisoning can be expensive. Pet insurance provides peace of mind and protection in the event that your pet is ever poisoned. Our platinum sponsor, Bow Wow Meow for Pets, is currently offering two months free pet insurance in the first year of coverage for Animal Poisons Helpline followers. Visit bowwowinsurance.com.au/poisons and enter promo code APH368 to take advantage of this offer. If you're a dog owner and have Sago palm or any other cycads growing in your garden, consider removing them or at least restricting access. If your pet has been exposed to a cycad, please phone the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) immediately for advice, even if your pet looks well. The Animal Poisons Helpline is a free service for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand.

12.01.2022 The Australian Animal Poisons Helpline Pawesome Prize Pack Giveaway is live! One lucky winner will bag all this for their best friend: Hill’s Dog Nutrition Pack tailored to your dog’s dietary requirements... KONG Dog Toy Play Pack tailored to your dog’s size and weight DOG by Dr Lisa Complete Set of coat and skincare products Bow Wow Meow Pet ID tags of your choice PLUS we’ve got not one but four runner up prize packs which include: KONG Dog Toy Play Pack tailored to your dog’s size and weight DOG by Dr Lisa Scentsational Set of coat and skincare products Bow Wow Meow Pet ID Tag of your choice This Pawesome Prize Pool is valued at over $2,000 AUD! To be in with a chance of winning, visit https://animalpoisons.com.au/enter entry is free - and you can get EXTRA entries for your furry friend for every dollar you donate - $1 gets you one extra entry. So suppawt the helpline for extra chances to win!

12.01.2022 Cyclamens are prolific flowering plants that are popular at this time of the year for their beautiful and varied blooms that will continue through the winter months. We have had a number of enquiries as to whether they are poisonous to pets. The leaves and tubers (the part of the plant below the soil) contain irritant poisons called triterpenoid saponins, that are toxic to cats and dogs. Small ingestions cause drooling, vomiting and possibly diarrhoea that is usually self-lim...iting. If large amounts are eaten, especially of the tubers, more serious effects such as a dangerously irregular heart beat (arrhythmia), seizures and death could result. If your pet has ingested any part of a cyclamen or any other plant, call us on 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand) for a tailored risk assessment and advice. Our service is free for all pet owners.

12.01.2022 After over 5 months of providing our free poisons advice service to pet owners we thought we would share with you the cats who seem to find themselves in need of help the most. Burmese and Ragdolls are the pure breed cats we receive the most calls about. However, the majority of our calls concerning cats were for the domestic cat. But what about names? Cats with the following names seemed to find themselves in trouble the most:... 1. Bella 2. Charlie 3. Luna 4. Simba 5. Oscar 6. Missy 7. Tiger 8. Max 9. Misty 10. Coco Of course these names likely reflect their popularity among pet owners, but it does make us wonder whether if you have a Bella or a Charlie, or a Luna and a Simba, maybe just be extra careful to keep poisons out of reach. If your cat has ingested anything they should not have, please call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (Australia) or 0800 869 738 (New Zealand) for advice. Our service is free for all pet owners.

12.01.2022 At the moment cases of tick paralysis in dogs and cats are not at their peak. This is because Australian Paralysis Ticks are most active in Spring and early Summer. They are found mostly along the east coast of Australia. Their primary host is the bandicoot, but they can also be found on a number of other native animals. In their quest to find a new host (and each other to breed) a tick will climb up to 50 cm in vegetation and wave their little front legs around until they ma...nage to grab onto a passing animal which could be a dog or a cat. Ticks can also be carried on clothing or camping equipment and when brought into the home, might attach to pets indoors. Once attached to the new host, the tick injects a local anaesthetic to numb the area so that it is not disturbed and will then start engorging itself on the hosts blood. As a tick feeds, it injects small amounts of the poison called holocyclotoxin from its salivary glands. A single adult female tick can produce enough toxin to cause death in a large dog. Signs of tick paralysis are delayed 3-5 days from when feeding begins. Early signs include a softening of the bark/meow, weakness in the rear legs (the animal might frequently sit or have difficulty standing or walking, especially up stairs), loss of appetite and vomiting. These signs progress to paralysis of all four legs, coughing, laboured breathing and difficulty swallowing. Death is caused by paralysis of the respiratory muscles and can occur within 24 hours of signs beginning. Prevention is definitely the best course of action with paralysis ticks. Speak with your vet about a tick preventative that works best in your local area. Performing a tick search 3-4 times per week is also invaluable. This involves walking your fingers through the coat in the opposite direction to fur growth; feeling for lumps and bumps on the skin. Particular attention should be paid to the head, neck and front leg areas (i.e., the front half of the animal); including ears, lips, mouth, nose and toes. Generally speaking the ticks are grey, with legs close to the head. A distinguishing feature is the colour of the legs, with the first and last pair being brown and the two pairs in between being white. During the tick season, avoid taking your dog for a walk in areas of vegetation known to harbor ticks and keep the areas of your garden that pets have access to maintained (e.g, mow lawns, trim shrubs, remove fallen branches and ensure compost areas are secure). Please call us if you have found a tick on your pet or if your pet has signs of tick paralysis. We can also help if you suspect your pet is having a reaction to a tick or flea preventative product. Our service is free to all pet owners. Phone 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand).

12.01.2022 Spring bulbs are flowering strongly to brighten our days, nodding to us in the breeze that spring has arrived! Heres what you should know about Spring bulb safety and your pet. Almost all plants that arise from bulbs or corms have the potential to be poisonous if ingested by your pet. These include daffodils, tulips, hyacinths, iris, bluebells, crocus, amaryllis, gladiola, alliums and lilies. All parts of these plants contain toxic substances, such as alkaloids and terpenoid...s, which irritate the gastrointestinal tract causing drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea and abdominal cramps. These signs can lead to secondary complications such as lethargy and dehydration. The most dangerous part of these plants are the underground bulbs. Dogs and cats tend not to chew the leaves, stems or flowers when planted outside. If they do, only very mild signs of poisoning would be expected unless large quantities are ingested. However, if you pet chews on or eats a bulb, signs could be much more severe. This is especially true of daffodils which have the potential to cause an irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure and seizures. Special mention must be made of lilies of the Lilium or Hemerocallis varieties. All parts of these plants, even the pollen, are highly poisonous to cats. Kidney failure can result from merely biting into a leaf or flower. Unless you have a very inquisitive pet, we do not think it is necessary to remove all bulb plants from your garden or home, however do be mindful of the following: If your dog is a digger cordon off bulbs or plant them in an area your pet can not access If digging up bulbs or storing them keep your pet away until they have been replanted or stored securely Do not allow pets to drink water from vases that have contained these plants It is safest to never have Lilium or Hemerocallis lilies in a home with cats If your cat is solely an indoor cat, any greenery introduced might get a nibble. Ensure alternative safe greens are available at all times, such as pet grass, to reduce the temptation. If you think your pet has been exposed to any of these bulbs, call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners. You can learn more about what we do at www.animalpoisons.com.au The free Animal Poisons Helpline has assisted over 5,000 accidentally poisoned pets so far this year. The next pet we help could be yours. You can save a pets life by keeping this critical service free. Please visit animalpoisons.com.au/support to learn about ways you can support the service.

11.01.2022 The Umbrella Tree (Schefflera) is an ornamental tree that has increased in popularity as a lush indoor plant as it is easy to grow in areas with low light. All parts of the plant contain toxic compounds including insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, saponins and terpenoids. If a pet chews on an Umbrella Tree these compounds are released causing irritation to any tissue they come into contact with. Signs of poisoning include drooling, swelling of the mouth and face, pawing at ...the mouth and face, vomiting, diarrhoea, itchy skin and general unsettled behaviour from the irritation such as pacing. In some cases, swelling of the airways can occur leading to breathing difficulties. If your pet has ingested any part of an Umbrella Tree or any other plant, please call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners.

11.01.2022 The safety of using essential oils around pets is a hot topic that the Animal Poisons Centre is often called about. If essential oils are used appropriately, they are generally regarded as safe. However, if used improperly, essential oils can be toxic to pets. Safe and appropriate use of essential oils is therefore crucial and general safety advice includes: Use essential oil burners and vaporisers only in well ventilated spaces. For the sensitive noses of our pets it may ...feel like trapping them in a car with an overly perfumed human. Ensure pets do not have access to containers that hold essential oils. Always return containers to a safe storage area that is not accessible by your pet immediately after using. Never apply concentrated essential oils to your pets skin or coat The risk of poisoning is dependent on many factors including the type of essential oil, the concentration of the oil and how your pet is exposed to the oil (ingestion, inhalation, skin exposure etc). Exposure to essential oils can result in varying symptoms ranging from drooling and vomiting to coma, seizures, and liver injury. Some common essential oils that are considered particularly toxic include the following: Eucalyptus and tea tree oil - Ingestion can result in drowsiness, unsteadiness on the feet, confusion, coma and seizures. Severe poisoning in dogs and cats has occurred from skin application of concentrated tea tree oil. Camphor Causes stimulation of the central nervous system and seizures. Clove oil Causes depression of the central nervous system and liver injury. Oil of wintergreen Contains a high concentration of methyl salicylate which can result in abdominal pain, vomiting, panting, confusion, seizures, coma and death. If you suspect that your pet has been exposed to any essential oil, you can call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for advice. Our service is free for all pet owners.

08.01.2022 Don't forget to add our phone number to your contacts so that you can call us quickly in an emergency. Our service is free for all Australian and New Zealand pet owners.

07.01.2022 Houdini lived up to his name. Whilst his owner was out shopping, he managed to escape his cage once again. He used the doggy door to get into the house, hopped up the steps and down the hallway into the master bedroom. He then set his eyes on his owners box of very expensive Christian Louboutin shoes. Luckily for his owner, Houdini decided not to nibble on the heels but rather feast on the small sachet of silica gel contained within the shoe box. Having arrived home, Houdin...is owner was initially relieved to see that her outrageously expensive shoes were still intact. However, on closer inspection noticed that the sachet of silica gel was now mostly missing. Frightened and concerned at possible consequences for her little rabbit, she called the Animal Poisons Centre. Much to her relief the owner was provided reassurance that no harm would come from silica gel. Houdini would live to see another day, and as such be given another opportunity to nibble on some fancy shoes. If your curious pet has ingested anything they should not have, please call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (Australia) or 0800 869 738 (New Zealand) for advice. Our service is free for all pet owners. Please note: Whilst this story is based off an actual call, the event is described in a fictional manner.

07.01.2022 Cannabis poisoning in pets is no laughing matter. We received a call from Bronsons owner after he had managed to sneak off with and eat one marijuana cookie. It was indeed Bronson that stole the cookie from the cookie jar. Bronson looked very tired and a bit unsteady on his feet, and whilst he had been fully toilet trained for years, had peed a little on the floor inside. Pets that ingest cannabis or cannabis products classically develop drowsiness, weakness, unsteadiness on... the feet, dilated pupils and often dribble urine. With more severe poisoning, convulsions and even coma have been reported. Whilst there is no specific antidote for cannabis poisoning, close observation and good supportive care provided by a veterinarian usually leads to positive outcomes. Following global trends, it could be expected that progressive state-based or even national decriminalisation of cannabis in Australia could occur over the coming years. We have already seen this occur in the ACT. These legislative changes could possibly result in more households storing cannabis or cannabis products for medical and recreational use, and as a result a greater number of pet exposures is possible. If you have cannabis or cannabis products in your house, please ensure they are kept out of reach of pets (and children!). Do not allow pets to enter an area with cannabis smoke until it has been thoroughly ventilated. If you suspect that your pet has been exposed to cannabis, please call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand) for advice. Our service is free (and non-judgmental) for all pet owners.

06.01.2022 With the cold weather upon us, we have noticed an increase in the number of cases involving instant single-use heat packs. These packs are often used as hand or feet warmers and may contain varying amounts of iron powder. When ingested, typically by dogs, iron poisoning may ensue. Early signs of poisoning can include vomiting which may contain blood, salivation, lack of interest in food and abdominal pain. Poisoned animals may appear to improve, but then develop progressive l...iver and kidney failure which can be life-threatening. Early veterinary treatment can potentially be lifesaving. If you have any of these heat packs in your home, please ensure they are kept out of reach of your pets. If your pet has ingested anything they should not have, you can call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ). Our service is free for all pet owners.

05.01.2022 As many households prepare their gardens for spring, we have noticed a significant increase in calls to the Animal Poisons Helpline regarding fertiliser ingestion. Fertilisers are available in a diverse range of formulations. Inorganic fertilisers tend to contain varying but generally high quantities of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium; as well as trace elements which are tailored to suit specific purposes. Whilst a small lick or taste is unlikely to cause significant poiso...ning, large ingestions can potentially result in severe effects. Organic fertilisers contain lower concentrations of these minerals. They are often made of different types of manures, blood, bone and other meals and as such are highly attractive to dogs. If dogs are allowed access to organic fertiliser packaging, it is not unusual for them to ingest very large quantities. Ingestion of organic fertilisers can result in severe gastroenteritis, possibly pancreatitis and gastrointestinal obstruction. As you prepare your garden for the warmer months ahead, take a moment to consider your pets: Never allow pets access to fertiliser containers or packaging. Keep in mind that dogs find organic fertilisers highly appetizing and will readily chew through packaging, so they need to be stored out of reach. Apply fertiliser as per the manufacturers recommendations (do not use excessive amounts) Water in fertiliser after application where possible - this is especially true for areas with chickens since they are very effective at picking up granules that have dropped to lower soil areas Avoid using organic fertiliser around spring bulbs (dogs will dig up the organic fertiliser and will often find these bulbs and eat them!) If you think your pet has ingested fertiliser, call us on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for a tailored risk assessment and recommendation, including first aid measures. Our service is free for all pet owners and has assisted over 5,000 accidentally poisoned pets so far this year. You can save a pets life by keeping this critical service free. Please visit animalpoisons.com.au/support to learn about ways you can support the service.

05.01.2022 Calls to the Animal Poisons Centre regarding dogs that have ingested rat-baits are very common. In the first quarter of 2020, brodifacoum (a long-acting highly potent anticoagulant rodenticide) was the most common poison that we were called about. Most domestic rat and mouse baits available in Australia and New Zealand contain anticoagulants which prevent the blood from clotting. The bittering agents which are added to many of the baits do not seem to prevent dogs from eating... them. Dogs that ingest these baits may be at risk of bleeding, which can be life-threatening. The risk of poisoning will depend on the active ingredient in the bait, the amount of bait ingested and the weight of your dog. It is certainly very possible for dogs to become poisoned after ingesting a standard quantity of bait that is laid out for rodent control. Cats rarely eat rodenticides due to their more selective eating habits. After eating these baits, animals often remain without symptoms for many days before developing potentially life-threatening bleeding. This can provide a false sense of reassurance to the owner that their pet will be OK. In the case of any ingestion, immediate professional advice (from the Animal Poisons Centre or your veterinarian) is therefore required. If you have a pet and are using rodenticides in or around your property, please ensure that they are ALWAYS kept out of reach. If you do not currently have a pet, do not forget to remove any accessible baits on your property if you have pets visiting your house. If your pet has ingested any rodenticide, EVEN IF YOUR PET IS COMPLETELY WELL, please call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (in Australia) or 0800 869 738 (in New Zealand). Our service is free for all pet owners.

05.01.2022 Quiz Time! If you were a poison, what would you be? Click the link below to take the Animal Poisons Centre quiz and find out ... https://qz.app.do/pg/if-you-were-a-poison-what-would-you-be

04.01.2022 With a change of seasons around the corner, we would like to alert all pet owners that we have noticed an increased number of calls to the Animal Poisons Centre regarding wild mushroom ingestions. Dogs are more likely than cats to ingest mushrooms and they are particularly attracted to stinkhorns. The stinkhorn pictured here is Aseroe rubra, more commonly known as the anemone stinkhorn or red starfish fungus. The smelly exposed spore mass on these fungi is enough to tempt eve...n the fussiest of dogs. Mushroom ingestion can cause a range of symptoms depending on the species and toxin involved. Whilst many mushroom ingestions result in either no symptoms or purely a gastroenteritis like syndrome, some mushroom ingestions such as Amanita phalloides (commonly known as the Death cap) can be life-threatening even with small amounts. Please be cautious by keeping an eye on your pet whilst walking them and where possible remove any mushrooms from your yard before your pet has a chance to play with or eat them. If your pet has ingested a wild mushroom, you can call the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand) for advice. Our service is free for all pet owners.

04.01.2022 We’re halfway there to choosing our winners... will it be you and your pet? We’ve been overwhelmed by your support for the helpline and for our competition. Thank you to everyone who has entered and donated. As a non profit charity organisation, the Australian Animal Poisons Helpline relies heavily upon the generosity of pet owners like you. Every donation helps keep the helpline available to give life-saving and FREE poisons information for pets and their owners. If you have...n’t entered yet, simply head to https://animalpoisons.com.au/enter for more info and to enter and if you want to get your pet some more chances to win, you can donate via https://animalpoisons.com.au/suppawt. For every dollar you donate, you’ll get one extra entry! Don’t forget to let your pet-loving friends and family know about our competition, they just might share their Pawesome Prize Pack with you...

03.01.2022 With the weather keeping us more indoors, some households are packing away summer clothes and tidying wardrobes. Be careful though if you are using mothballs with pets in the house. Many mothballs and flakes contain naphthalene which is dangerous to pets. A little sniff or lick might cause mild self-limiting signs such as nausea, vomiting and respiratory irritation. However, ingestion may lead to severe poisoning. Naphthalene damages red blood cells causing them to rupture ... a condition known as haemolytic anaemia. Symptoms include weakness, lack of appetite, pale gums, red urine, yellowing of the skin/whites of the eyes and in severe cases collapse and possibly death. Cats are particularly sensitive to the toxic effects of naphthalene. Where possible, try some more natural alternatives to prevent clothes moths: Clean all clothes before storing them. Store clothes that will not be used for the season in airtight containers. Open up drawers and cupboards to natural light a few times a month. Scented drawer liners/sachets made with cedar, lavender, rosemary and/or thyme scents may deter clothes moths but are less effective than other methods. If you are concerned your pet has been poisoned, please call the Animal Poisons Centre for free advice on 1300 869 738 (from Australia) or 0800 869 738 (from New Zealand).

03.01.2022 Dogs and people digest and metabolise food differently. Therefore, not all foods we eat should be given to our dogs. The Animal Poisons Centre has put together the following quiz to assess your knowledge of what should and shouldn't be fed to your dog! https://qz.app.do/pg/can-my-dog-eat-this-2828806

01.01.2022 Can my pet get poisoned from eating a poisoned rat or mouse? This is a question we get asked a lot and the answer depends on the situation. If a rat or mouse has died from an anti-coagulant rodenticide (e.g. brodifacoum, bromadiolone, difenacoum, etc), it is likely that small amounts of the poison could still remain in the rodent's gastrointestinal tract and liver. If your dog or cat eats a single poisoned rat or mouse, they are unlikely to consume enough of the poison to cau...se a problem. However if your pet is repeatedly eating poisoned rodents, it is possible for your pet to become affected. Your pet may also be more susceptible to the poison if they have a poor functioning liver or are on certain medications. This is called relay toxicosis, where an animal gets poisoned through the ingestion of another animal that has died from a poison. Sadly, it is common for wild predatory birds to develop relay toxicosis and it has been reported in farm cats. If your pet has ingested a mouse or rat that you think has been poisoned, please call the Animal Poisons Centre for advice on what to do next. The service is free for all pet owners: 1300 869 738 (in Australia) or 0800 869 738 (in New Zealand).