Pesticide Poisoning

It is not the intention of the Wright Animal Hospital to create paranoia, but we believe it’s our obligation to keep you informed of the latest research pertaining to the possibility of pesticide poisoning.

A number of studies are underway to determine what, if any link exists between cancer in small animals and lawn pesticides. Researchers at Purdue University have detected an abnormally high incidence of bladder cancer in Scottish Terriers as opposed to other breeds of dogs, and wonder if their close proximity to the ground contributes to the high rate. The risk of Scottish Terriers having bladder cancer was 4 -7 greater for those exposed to lawn pesticides as opposed to those not exposed to lawn pesticides. Before jumping to any conclusions (ala DDT), it should be noted that Scottish Terriers may have a predisposition to bladder cancer and certain chemicals may just be a “trigger” for a full blown attack. In addition, these pets travel “close to the ground” and may breath in pesticide vapors more readily than their taller brethren.

The Colorado Environmental Pesticide Education Program believes pets may absorb pesticides through ground contact as well as through the air. Ground contact can take several forms including through the paws, through the skin after a pet rolls in a treated area, and through the mouth as a pet grooms himself after being exposed to pesticides.

Symptoms Of Insecticide Poisoning Include

• excessive salivation
• eyes welling with tears
• frequent urination
• muscles twitching
• weakness
• difficult breathing
• collapsing

Symptoms Of Phenoxy Herbicide Poisoning (Such as 2,4-D) Include

• nausea
• vomiting
• abdominal pain
• weakness
• dizziness
• unsteady gait

What To Do

If you suspect your pet has been exposed to pesticide poisoning:

• keep your pet warm and quiet
• try to determine which chemicals may be involved
• determine the intensity of the exposure including the chemical’s dilution and the amount of time your pet may have been exposed
• if possible, gather the Material Safety Data Sheet and/or the label from the chemical’s container
• save any fluids given up by the afflicted pet including urine, vomit, etc.
• call Wright Animal Hospital immediately. If after hours, please call the Emergency Hospital at 847-564-5775.

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Wright Animal Hospital is affiliated with Animal Specialty Services of Cook County. To visit the Animal Specialty Services website and view some of Dr. Drazner’s research papers, click HERE

If you believe your pet has been poisoned, gather all information, including the name of the suspected poison, and call your Veterinarian Immediately!

The National Animal Poison Control Center’s 24 Hour Emergency Phone Number Is:
1-800-548-2423
(The NAPCC is located at the University of Illinois and there is a charge of  $30 per case, billable to your credit card. To charge to your phone, call
1-900-680-0000
You will be charged $20 for the first five minutes and $2.95 for each additional minute.))

SPECIAL TIP!
A  Pet Emergency First Aid kit can be as important as its “People” counterpart during those special “Pet Emergencies.” If you haven’t put one together, click HERE for more information!