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TOP 10 HAZARDS ENCOUNTERED BY PETS IN 2006

Mar 16, 2007

Last year, the ASPCA managed more than 116,000 calls to the Animal Poison Control Center?’s 24-hour hotline?—many of which pertained to common household items. ?“While the reason is not clear, calls in these categories seem to be on the rise,?” says the ASPCA?’s Dr. Steven Hansen. As we prepare to celebrate National Poison Prevention Week, March 18-24, the ASPCA advises pet parents to stay alert to the dangers posed by the following:

1. Human Medications
This category has topped our list for several years now?—and last year, more than 78,000 calls involved common human drugs such as painkillers, cold medications, antidepressants and dietary supplements. Comments Hansen, ?“Pet parents should never give their pet any medication without the direction of a veterinarian. Just one extra-strength acetaminophen, for example, can be deadly to a cat.?”

2. Insecticides
Our toxicologists handled more than 27,000 cases pertaining to products used to kill fleas, ticks and other insects. ?“A key factor in the safe use of these products is reading and following label instructions exactly,?” says Hansen.

3. Veterinary Medications
Surprising as it may seem, last year the ASPCA managed more than 12,000 cases involving animal-related preparations, such as de-wormers, anti-inflammatory drugs, vaccines and nutritional supplements. ?“Many medications are intended for use in certain species only, and potentially serious problems could result if given to the wrong animal or at too high a dose,?” says Hansen.

To read all 10 tips, please visit ASPCA online.