Health hazards
Pet Health Hazards in Edmonton
Many pet emergencies are preventable. Here are common hazards for dogs and cats in Edmonton homes, yards and neighbourhoods, and what to do if something goes wrong.
Know the risks
Hazards by place and season.
This isn't a complete list. If you're worried about something your pet has eaten or touched, call a veterinarian.
In the kitchen and home
Chocolate, grapes and raisins, onions and garlic, and sugar-free products containing xylitol can be dangerous to dogs. Lilies are toxic to cats. Keep human medications, including cannabis products, out of reach.
Winter
Antifreeze is highly toxic and can taste sweet to pets. Road salt and ice melt can irritate paws. Very cold weather can cause frostbite, so keep outdoor time short.
Summer and outdoors
Never leave a pet in a parked car. Hot pavement can burn paws, and heat stroke can happen quickly. Stagnant water and algae can also be harmful.
Garden, garage and wildlife
Rodent poisons, fertilizers and some plants and mushrooms are dangerous. Keep pets away from wildlife, and supervise them in parks and on trails.
If you suspect poisoning
Act quickly and get advice.
If your pet may have eaten or been exposed to something harmful, call a veterinarian or an emergency hospital right away. Don't wait for symptoms.
Don't try to make your pet vomit unless a veterinarian tells you to. It can make some poisonings worse.
Have this ready
What your pet ate or touched, and how much
The packaging or a photo of it
When it happened
Your pet's weight and any health conditions
Questions
Health hazard FAQs.
Is it an emergency if my pet seems fine?
It can be. Some toxins cause problems hours or days later. Call for advice as soon as you know about it.
Can Rosslyn treat poisoning?
Call us during our hours and we'll tell you whether we can help or whether your pet needs a 24-hour hospital.
How can I prevent accidents?
Store food, medications and chemicals securely, and supervise pets outdoors. Ask us for advice on your pet's lifestyle.