Posts in Category: Pet Toxins

The natural marketplace is booming – and for the most part, this is great for people’s health. But just because something is considered natural for us, it doesn’t mean that it’s safe for pets. Essential oils are just one example of natural products intended to help people with various issues (from stress to the common cold), but their purity is what can make certain oils dangerous to dogs, birds, and cats. 

If you have pets and essential oils at home, it’s critical to keep them apart.

While many of our readers may be familiar with the Cannabis Act which would result in the legalization of the recreational use of marijuana in Canada, it is important that the well-being of our pets be part of the discussion.  It is necessary to point out that the current legislation could lead to an increase use of cannabis which might pose an increased risk of marijuana toxicity to our pets.

The increased use of cannabis both for recreational and medicinal purposes so far has resulted in an increase in cannabis toxicity cases in pets.  To help protect your pet from toxins associated with marijuana use, the team at Summeridge Animal Clinic has examined some of the reasons why cannabis and pets do not mix.

Continue…

As pet owners, it’s only natural for us to want our animals to feel better. We often do whatever we can to make that happen. Sometimes, it may be tempting to give your pet some of your medication, and while this may seem harmless, it is often not.

Over the counter medications are not always safe for our furry friends. Summeridge Animal Clinic wants you to think twice before combining human medications and your pet.

Why Human Medications and Your Pet Don’t Mix

It’s true that human medications for pets are sometimes prescribed. However, if you’re not well versed in animal physiology and pharmacology, this can be a dangerous practice. Pets are not people. They often require different dosages than what is on the label. Different species metabolize drugs differently, as well. For instance, both dogs and people often take a medication called levothyroxine for low thyroid hormone. The dose a 100 pound labrador retriever would take, however, could kill a 100 pound person.

Continue…