Pet poisonings on the rise in the Heidelberg area
Your dog being poisoned could also mean criminal activities are being planned.
It has come to light in recent weeks that animals, especially dogs, are being poisoned in the Heidelberg area.
In the past few days alone, as far as could be established, at least two dogs were poisoned in the Rensburg area
The causes of poisoning can be the result of various factors within your own household, including medications meant for human consumption, such as aspirin, paracetamol, ibuprofen; certain foods, such as chocolate, avocado pears and macadamia nuts; alcohol; rat poison or certain household plants, like azaleas, rhododendrons, oleander, lily, ivy, daffodils, and fertiliser.
Other hazards include chemicals and cleaning products around the house.
Your dog being poisoned could also mean criminal activities are being planned.
Here are some of the symptoms to look out for:
If your dog is perfectly healthy and suddenly as ‘sick as a dog’, it is possible he has been poisoned.
Certain indications that your pet has been poisoned is weakness, lethargy, collapsing, agitation, breathing difficulties, excessive bleeding, heart problems, muscle tremors (looks like worms crawling under the skin), salivating, seizures, vomiting and watery diarrhoea.
If at any time you suspect your pet is poisoned, the best is to take him to the nearest vet in your area.
What needs to be done when your pet is suspected of being poisoned?
Stay calm. Try to identify the cause of the poisoning, if at all possible.
Remove the substance or food item and take it with you when going to your local vet.
