We are a service oriented Pet Clinic operating as a single doctor, small animal practice on the beautiful Oregon coast. Grooming and limited boarding for small pets are also services we offer. Come visit our mini store with pet foods, prescription diets, shampoos, and flea products.

I recently attended a veterinary convention and received some information on toxic substances in pets that was worth passing on. The number one poisonous substance ingestion we see at the clinic is probably rodenticides (rat poisons), but metaldehyde (slug bait) and chocolate are common as well. Here are a few other toxins that are not as well known by pet owners.

Grapes and raisons: There have been many cases of grape and raison ingestion causing kidney failure in dogs. The actual toxic substance at this time is unknown, but as little as 6 grapes has caused symptoms. Typical signs occur within 2-6 hours of eating the grapes and may include vomiting, depression, and lethargy. Dogs that develop kidney failure from grapes generally have a poor prognosis.

Lilies (Lilium and Hemoerocallis): Lilies cause simple stomach upset in dogs, but they can cause kidney disease in cats. Many of this species of flowers are used as potted plants or in outdoor flower beds. Within 2-12 hours of ingestion, most cats will show vomiting, loss of appetite, depression, and lethargy. This progresses in the next 24-96 hours to kidney failure and possibly death if not treated aggressively in a hospital setting.

Raw or spent hops from beer making: Sight breed dogs like greyhounds seem to be especially susceptible to this devastating toxin. After eating the hops, their body temperature elevates to sometimes over 108° F. Initial signs include drooling, vomiting, and excessive panting. Treatment has rarely been successful and most dogs die from this condition.

If you are concerned about other common items and their toxicity, you can find more information at www.aspca.org/apcc.

I hope this update was helpful in caring for your furry companions. If you found it helpful, please pass this website on to your other pet owning friends!

Dianne Brown, DVM

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