March 17 to March 23, 2019, marks National Poison Prevention Week, and it's the perfect opportunity to remind pet owners of the dangers toxic substances pose to household animals. In addition to insecticides and rodenticides, many common items around the house can harm pets, such as human medications, foods, and supplements. Here are some animal care tips to keep poisonous materials away from your pets.

How to Prevent Pet Poisoning

1. Store Toxic Substances Securely & Out of Reach

Keep insect and rodent poisons in a garage, shed, or other location less frequented by your companion animals, and store these items on a high shelf or cabinet well out of reach. Put your medications, vitamins, and supplements on the uppermost shelf of a medicine cabinet that closes and latches securely. Don't leave your food unattended; store it in the refrigerator or airtight containers inside cupboards.

2. Don't Give Any Medication to Your Pet Unless Instructed by a Vet

As a pet owner, you want to provide diligent animal care, especially when your pet is dealing with a health issue. But never give any medication or supplement to your pet unless your veterinarian has prescribed it. Animal bodies have different physiologies than human ones. For instance, acetaminophen, a common pain reliever, is fatal for cats, even in small doses.

3. Monitor Pets After Chemical Spraying

If you or someone in the neighborhood has recently used a fertilizer, herbicide, or insecticide outside, monitor when pets are out and about. These substances must be completely dry before they’re considered safe for animals. Until that time, leash dogs when they're in the yard or on a walk and keep cats indoors.

If you suspect your pet has ingested something harmful, take them to the animal care providers at Waipahu Waikele Pet Hospital as soon as possible. This veterinary hospital is open seven days a week and offers emergency vet care 24 hours a day. Serving the Waipahu, HI, area since 1972, they provide diagnosis and treatment of health issues, preventative care, and pet boarding. To schedule an appointment, call (808) 671-7387 or visit their website.