Every year, thousands of pets suffer from accidental poisoning due to exposure to household chemicals, foods, and plants. To raise awareness and promote pet safety, the third week of March is recognized as National Animal Poison Prevention Week in the United States. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at what this week is all about and what pet owners can do to keep their furry friends safe.

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What is National Animal Poison Prevention Week All About?

National Animal Poison Prevention Week was established in 1961 by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) in partnership with the U.S. Congress. The purpose of the week is to educate pet owners on the dangers of common household items and to provide information on how to prevent accidental pet poisonings. The third week of March was chosen as it typically coincides with the arrival of spring, which is when many pet owners start their spring cleaning and landscaping activities.

Pets are naturally curious and like to explore their surroundings, often using their mouths to do so. Unfortunately, this can lead to accidental poisonings if they come into contact with toxic substances. Common items that can be poisonous to pets include:

• Foods such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and raisins
• Household chemicals like cleaning products, pesticides, and antifreeze
• Medications like pain relievers, anti-anxiety drugs, and heart medications
• Plants like lilies, daffodils, and tulips

Symptoms of pet poisoning can vary depending on the substance involved, but may include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, seizures, and even death. It's important for pet owners to be aware of the signs of poisoning and seek veterinary care immediately if they suspect their pet has ingested something toxic.

How can pet owners prevent accidental poisonings?

Fortunately, there are many steps pet owners can take to help prevent accidental pet poisonings. Here are a few tips:

• Keep all medications, cleaning products, and chemicals out of reach of pets. Store them in cabinets or on high shelves where pets cannot access them.
• Be aware of toxic foods and plants and keep them away from pets. If you're not sure whether a particular food or plant is safe for pets, check with your veterinarian or the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center.
• Keep pets out of areas where chemicals have been applied, such as lawns or gardens treated with pesticides.
• Be careful when using essential oils or other natural remedies around pets, as some can be toxic if ingested.
• Keep an eye on your pet when they are outside and make sure they don't eat anything they shouldn't, such as mushrooms or other wild plants.

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, it's important to act quickly. Contact your veterinarian or a veterinary emergency clinic right away, even if your pet is not showing any symptoms yet. They can advise you on what to do next and may recommend bringing your pet in for treatment. Be sure to bring any packaging or labels from the substance your pet ingested so that your veterinarian can identify the toxic ingredient and provide appropriate treatment.

In some cases, you may also want to contact the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center. This service is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and provides expert assistance and advice on potential poisonings. There is a fee for this service, but it can be a valuable resource in an emergency situation.

National Animal Poison Prevention Week serves as an important reminder to pet owners to be mindful of the potential dangers in our homes and to take steps to keep our pets safe. 

At GCP, we understand the significance of ensuring our beloved pets are safe and healthy, both inside and out. That's why we believe in going the extra mile by using natural flea, tick, and mosquito deterrents to keep our fur babies healthy and happy. Let's continue to prioritize our pets' well-being every day, and remember to keep them safe from harmful toxins and pests.