This is an article by a vet (a Dr Basil Sands, from the Nassau Guardian). Hope it's useful to sufferers from canine noise pollution!
How many times have you heard someone say their neighbor is trying, or
has poisoned their pet? Often, the pertinent clinical signs are unrelated
to any toxin, however, many times, toxicosis is the source of clinical
signs. Most toxic exposure in animals is accidental. Many pets may ingest
plants, pesticides, automotive products and over-the-counter prescription
drugs available in or around the home, despite the owner's best efforts to
prevent them from doing so.
Today, because of the age of the Internet, there are a lot of truths,
half-truths and untruths out there. There are so many rumors, and
misinformation, that one must be careful on the Internet. I will try to
give good information that has been verified as good about certain
poisoning.
Ingestion of grapes and raisins may result in acute renal failure in
dogs. Vomiting, lethargy and polydipsia (thirst) may occur five to six
hours after ingestion, followed by loss of appetite and diarrhea. The
owner should induce vomiting and place the animal on fluids.
Ingestion of sugarless candy or gum containing xylitol is poisonous to
dogs. Weakness, ataxia and total collapse may occur 30 to 60 minutes
following ingestion. Xylitol promotes insulin release by the pancreas
which results in profound hypoglycemia.
Ingestion of chocolate can poison cats and dogs. All chocolates contain
caffeine and theobromine which are toxic. This causes restlessness,
cardiac arrhythmia, seizures, vomiting and diarrhea.
Onions and garlic can be bad for dogs. Too much onion and garlic in the
diet can produce depression, rapid heart and respiratory rates and pale
mucus membranes.
Ingestion of poinsettia flowers or leaves can make cats and dogs sick.
This plant contains a milky lard sap that contains diterpenoid esters.
These are irritants to the gastrointestinal system.
Macadamia nuts produce muscle weakness in dogs. Weakness, depression
and vomiting usually occur six hours after ingestion.
Centipedes if eaten by pets can cause harm. All centipedes are venomous
and can inflict harm by their stings, or because they have been
ingested.
Vitamins A and D have toxic potential for many animals. Excessive
amounts of vitamin A promote bone lesions. Excessive amounts of vitamin D
will result in hypercalcemia and calcium deposits on soft tissues.
Herbal products can harm cats and dogs. When left open and available,
potpourri, garden herbs, cooking powders, perfumes and any various
odorants or similar scent products are attractive to cats. They are very
irritating to the gastrointestinal tract.
Greenie dental treats are not risk free for cats and dogs. Greenies are
hard, green, molded bone-shaped treats that contain wheat gluten and other
additives. They are intended to be chewed before ingestion to help prevent
oral odors, tartar buildup and gingivitis. Unfortunately, pets
occasionally will swallow large pieces of the hand treats rather than chew
them, resulting in gastrointestinal upset.
Clorox bleach contains sodium hypochlorite which is corrosive and may
cause harm due to eye and skin contact. Too often, Bahamian owners wash
their floors or kennels on a daily basis, resulting in a lot of skin
lesions as a result of the bleach.
Anything and everything can potentially be toxic for a companion animal
because the dose alone makes all the difference.
Daily I receive emails that may have some validity, or may be clearly
erroneous, or sometimes are half-truths concerning different toxins. I
have to use my knowledge, experience and common sense to provide
appropriate, realistic and professional information. Because there is one
true toxicology lab available to veterinarians in The Bahamas, many times
we are at a disadvantage and hence we do miss some diagnoses.
