Brown snakes are highly venomous reptiles found in various regions of Australia, and a bite from them can be life-threatening to dogs. If your dog is bitten by a brown snake, it is critical to take immediate action. Symptoms of a brown snake bite may include sudden weakness, collapse, trembling, paralysis, difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, and blood clotting issues. Without prompt veterinary intervention, a brown snake bite can quickly become fatal. Keep your dog as calm and still as possible, and transport them to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately. Do not attempt to handle or capture the snake, as it can be dangerous for both you and your pet. Time is of the essence in treating a brown snake bite, so swift action is vital to give your dog the best chance of recovery.
Tick paralysis is a common cause for concern, due to the Ixodes tick, or the Australian paralysis tick. These ticks carry a potent toxin that can lead to paralysis when they attach themselves to animals. The Australian paralysis tick is commonly found in bush land and coastal areas, posing a seasonal threat to our pets, and we are seeing cases from the NSW coast all year round. Tick paralysis manifests as muscle weakness, beginning in the lower limbs and gradually affecting other muscle groups. Additional symptoms may include difficulty breathing, and impaired swallowing. Vigilance, with tick prevention, is crucial, especially when travelling outside of Canberra and make sure to use a registered Veterinary product. For example Bravecto or Nexgard Spectra.
Grapes and raisins, although seemingly harmless, can be toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to severe health complications. The exact substance within grapes that causes toxicity has recently been identified as a fungus, however only some grapes contain this fungus. Symptoms of grape ingestion may include vomiting, diarrhoea, lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and decreased urine production. In more severe cases, it can lead to kidney failure and be life-threatening. If you suspect your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt medical attention is crucial to minimise potential harm. As prevention is the best approach, ensure grapes and raisins are kept out of your dog's reach and be cautious about any foods or products that may contain them.
Paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, is a common over-the-counter medication used to relieve pain and reduce fever in humans. However, it is important to be aware that paracetamol can be highly toxic to pets, particularly cats and dogs. Even small doses of paracetamol can cause serious health complications in animals. Symptoms of paracetamol toxicity may include difficulty breathing, lethargy, vomiting, jaundice, and swelling of the face or paws. If you suspect your pet has ingested paracetamol, seek immediate veterinary care. It is crucial to keep all medications securely stored and out of your pet's reach to prevent accidental ingestion. Remember, when it comes to your pet's health, it's always best to consult with a veterinarian for proper advice and treatment.
Rat baits are commonly used to control rodent populations, but they pose a significant risk to our pets. Rat bait toxicity occurs when pets accidentally ingest or come into contact with these toxic substances. The active ingredients in rat baits, such as anticoagulants, can interfere with the blood's clotting ability, leading to internal bleeding and other serious health complications. It's crucial to recognise the signs of rat bait poisoning, which may include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, coughing, vomiting, or blood in the stool or urine. If you suspect your pet has ingested rat bait, seek immediate veterinary attention. Prompt treatment can make a significant difference in their recovery. To prevent such incidents, keep rat baits securely stored in inaccessible areas and consider alternative rodent control methods that are safe for your pets. Your pet's safety is our priority, and we're here to help if you have any concerns or questions regarding rat bait toxicity.
Snail baits or slug pellets are commonly used to control garden pests, but they can be extremely dangerous to our pets. Snail bait toxicity occurs when pets ingest these pellets, which often contain chemicals such as metaldehyde or iron phosphate. These substances can cause severe poisoning in pets, leading to symptoms such as excessive drooling, tremors, seizures, vomiting, diarrhoea, or difficulty breathing. If you suspect your pet has ingested snail bait, it is crucial to seek immediate veterinary care. Time is of the essence in treating snail bait toxicity. To prevent such incidents, use pet-safe alternatives for pest control, and ensure that snail baits are stored securely and out of your pet's reach. If you have any concerns or questions about snail bait toxicity, don't hesitate to reach out to us. Your pet's well-being is our top priority.
Blue-green algae toxicity in dogs is a grave concern as exposure to contaminated water can have severe consequences. Ingesting or coming into contact with water containing toxins released by blue-green algae can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, difficulty breathing, excessive drooling, seizures, and, in severe cases, even death. It is crucial to be vigilant when near bodies of water and prevent your dog from accessing or drinking from potentially contaminated sources. If you suspect your dog has been exposed to blue-green algae, seek immediate veterinary attention to ensure their safety and well-being.
Please enter your search...
Please enter a search term.