The toxic danger for dogs

Recently, our dog passed away from liver failure after consuming something toxic. It all happened so fast. She stopped eating and became emaciated. Her bloodwork at the vet indicated her liver was damaged.

Recently, our dog passed away from liver failure after consuming something toxic. It all happened so fast. She stopped eating and became emaciated. Her bloodwork at the vet indicated her liver was damaged. A week later, her stomach began filling with fluid, she became disoriented, started passing blood, and passed away before we could get back to the clinic to end her suffering.

What she ate is still a mystery. Was it something organic from a Bruce Peninsula forest where she was just prior to being ill? Something man-made, like antifreeze, rodenticides, or insecticides? Something in the garbage, or a toxic plant perhaps?

Common sources of poisoning for dogs range from certain foods and medications to household products and plants. The most frequent toxic threat is often our own over-the-counter or prescription medications, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen, blood pressure drugs, and birth control pills.

Many human foods also contain elements that are toxic to dogs. The familiar culprits are chocolate, garlic and onions, alcohol, the artificial sweetener Xylitol, avocado skins, grapes, and raisins. It's crucial to be vigilant, avoid feeding dogs table scraps, and ensure they don’t have easy access to garbage. Many common household and garden plants are also toxic, including ivy, aloe vera, poinsettias, lilies, tulips, and certain mushrooms.

Our vet also considered Leptospirosis, a deadly bacterial disease spread by wildlife urine that can also be transmitted to humans, but bloodwork eventually ruled it out.

Typical signs of poisoning in a dog include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and discoloration of the gums. In our dog's case, what she ate caused quick and severe liver damage. She showed signs of jaundice in her gums, had gastrointestinal issues, a swollen abdomen, and lethargy. The technical term for her condition was hepatic encephalopathy—essentially, liver failure.

We had taken her to Birch Lane Veterinary Clinic, where she received great care and attention. Unfortunately, she needed more intensive care than is available locally, as Sarnia does not have a referral animal hospital like those in Windsor and London.

Our dog was only four years old. Our time with her was precious, and our lives were enriched by her. We were always vigilant in watching what she ate or what she ‘got into’. But one never knows; it can happen so fast. Cherish the moments with your pets.