Animal Poison Prevention Week is observed every year during the third week of March to raise awareness about the dangers of toxic substances to pets and other animals. This week serves as a reminder for pet owners and animal lovers to take preventive measures to keep their furry friends safe from harmful foods, plants, chemicals, and household items.

Key Objectives of Animal Poison Prevention Week:

1. Educate Pet Owners – Raise awareness about common household toxins, including human foods, medications, and cleaning supplies that can be dangerous to pets.
2. Prevent Poisoning Incidents – Encourage pet-proofing homes by storing hazardous materials out of reach.
3. Recognize Symptoms of Poisoning – Teach pet owners how to identify signs of poisoning such as vomiting, diarrhea, drooling, lethargy, seizures, or difficulty breathing.
4. Promote Emergency Preparedness – Inform pet owners about steps to take if poisoning occurs, including contacting a veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at (888) 426-4435.

Common Pet Poisons:

• Foods: Chocolate, grapes, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), caffeine, alcohol.
• Plants: Lilies (toxic to cats), aloe vera, sago palm, poinsettias.
• Medications: Over-the-counter painkillers (ibuprofen, acetaminophen), antidepressants, vitamins.
• Household Products: Cleaning supplies, antifreeze, rodenticides, insecticides.

How to Protect Your Pets:

✅ Keep toxic substances locked away and out of reach.
✅ Dispose of trash securely to prevent pets from rummaging.
✅ Be mindful of plants and flowers brought into the home.
✅ Read labels carefully before giving pets any medications or food.
✅ Have emergency numbers readily available (vet, poison control).

By spreading awareness and taking preventive steps, we can help keep pets safe from accidental poisoning and ensure their well-being.

Take a look around your home, both inside and out, and identify any potential dangers for your pet.

• Secure chemicals in a location your pets can’t access.
• Keep medicines secure.
• Dispose of harmful food or keep them out of your pet’s reach.
• Explore your yard for poisonous plants and bulbs.
• Remind guests that you don’t feed your pet table scraps.

Protecting our pets takes more than regular walks and visits to the veterinarian. It includes knowing what can make them ill or worse kill them.

Visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control website for more information on how to protect your pet and who to contact in case of an emergency. Pet-proof your home both indoors and out. If you’re moving into a new home, check the landscape for plants that may be poisonous to your pet. If you aren’t sure, contact your veterinarian to confirm.