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VERNON - Few things are more stressful for dog owners than realizing their furry friend has gobbled up something poisonous. Cue panic, shock, guilt — was it something you left out that the dog got into?

The results can be fatal, and when they’re not, they are still likely to include traumatic symptoms such as vomiting, seizures and trouble walking.

After receiving an emotional call from a Vernon man who recently lost his dog Cowboy to a mysterious substance, we wanted to know common types of poisons in the area, and what you should do if your dog gets sick.

Kris Markson's nine-month-old Australian Shepherd cross became violently ill last month after a walk at the BX dog park in Vernon. He says Cowboy began throwing up, experiencing seizures and having difficulty breathing, prompting an emergency visit to the 24-hour Fairfield Animal Hospital in Lake Country. Unfortunately, Cowboy had to be put down.

“The vet told us we’ll most likely never know exactly what caused it, but they believe it was a neurotoxin that attacked his nervous system,” Markson says.

Cowboy

Image Credit: Kris Markson

He did all the right things: checked his yard for possible culprits, and then notified dog control and the RCMP in case it was an intentional poisoning. Like the vet said, he’ll probably never know for sure.

“I just don’t want this to happen again to another family. It was horrific,” Markson says.

According to the Fairfield Animal Hospital, fatal incidents are rare and most cases of toxicity are accidental. Knowing what substances might harm your pet, and what symptoms to watch out for if they do get into something, can mean the difference between life and death.

Veterinarian Dr. Cassie Henry shared the following common toxins they see in pets at their clinic:

1. THC (marijuana)
The pet most often becomes ataxic/wobbly, frequently urinating. Supportive care (IV fluids/medications) in clinic is recommended, clinical signs usually resolve within 12 to 24 hours with treatment.

2. Mycotoxin (often from moldy compost/garbage)
The pet can have severe tremors (often confused with seizures). Can see hyperthermia or liver damage. Supportive care in clinic is recommended. Usually tremors improve/resolve within 24 hours with treatment.

3. Lillies
This toxin is most often seen in cats. Symptoms include vomiting or increased salivation. Can cause kidney failure/death even with aggressive treatment. Decontamination (inducing vomiting) post ingestion is very important.

4. Xylitol (sweetener)
Can cause a drop in blood sugar leading to seizures. With high doses can also see liver damage. Decontamination and supportive care in clinic is recommended.

5. Chocolate
Can cause tachycardia (fast heart rate), hyperactivity, vomiting/diarrhea, seizures and sometimes — but rare — death. Decontamination and sometimes supportive care is recommended (depending on total amount ingested)

6. Grapes
Can cause kidney failure. Supportive care for a few days with monitoring blood work to trend for any long-term damage.

Seeking treatment as soon as possible is always recommended, Dr. Henry says.

“It is easier and safer to treat your pet if diagnosed early,” she says.

The Vernon RCMP confirmed it received a report of a suspicious occurrence from the BX dog park on May 28, but did not say whether the incident was determined to be an intentional poisoning. 

“The matter was investigated and there have been no further reports of similar nature made,” RCMP spokesperson Const. Kelly Brett says.

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