How do you know which foods and household cleaners are safe for your pets? “If you have any doubts, ask your veterinarian,” says Dr. Stephan Hansen, head of the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center. Some facts may surprise you.
Relatively Safe: Chocolate. Don’t offer it as a treat, but don’t panic if your Lab eats a bar of milk chocolate – the worst she’ll likely get is a bellyache. Caution: Chocolate is more dangerous for smaller dogs. They may need a trip to the emergency clinic.
Unsafe: Xylitol sugar substitute. You’ll likely find this ingredient in your favorite sugar-free gum, candy, or cough drops. If your pet eats Xylitol, head to the vet immediately. Make sure you put candy where pets can’t get to it.
Relatively Safe: Commercial chewies made to be ingested and pet toys are usually fine. Dr. Hansen says to buy appropriate sizes and use as recommended. Watch for wear and replace as necessary.
Unsafe: Letting a pet chew on socks, underwear, and nylons is risky abusiveness. Materials such as elastic can cause a blockage in the digestive tract if ingested. Keep laundry in hampers, and always watch for what your dog has in his mouth.
[Editorial note: This is only part of the article which appeared Parade Magazine. We will include more of the article in future issues of The Canine Post. Or you can look it up online at Parade.com]