what is causing your dog to vomit?

Your pet can be just like a child and get into something they shouldn't be into. Unfortunately, pet poisonings, even by accident, are common in the US, and over 230,000 cases are reported annually. Your pet can be poisoned by ingesting household cleaning products, licking something leaking under your car, eating a plant that is toxic, or eating something intentionally meant to cause harm by a disgruntled neighbor.

You may not realize your pet has been poisoned until it's too late. When in doubt, take your pet to the animal hospital right away. Even if they weren't poisoned, they can still get a checkup to make sure they are OK. Here are five signs your pet may have been poisoned.

Your pet is panting and acting agitated

A pet may pant or act agitated when they have been poisoned. This can be due to a rapid heartbeat or due to the pet feeling in pain. Drooling and very wide eyes or dilated pupils may also be noticed. Since these same symptoms can be a sign of heat stroke and other issues, take your pet to the animal hospital straight away.

Your pet is refusing food and water

Is your pet refusing food and water? Are they actively retching or gagging or otherwise acting strangely? If so, they need to go to the veterinarian to see if they have been poisoned or if they are ill. Your pet may also have something lodged in its throat or stomach causing it to act this way.

Your pet is vomiting something strange

If your pet is vomiting a strange food or liquid and has any other symptoms related to being poisoned, call an animal hospital to be on the safe side. Your pet may have ingested a poison and its body repelled the poison. Look for color, foam, and particles in your pet's vomit, and try to collect a sample to take to the vet.

Your pet has been around poisons

Snail bait, antifreeze, rat poison, and common household plants are all unfortunate attractions for pets. If your pet has been around any poisons at all, call an animal hospital to see if they need to be brought in for an exam.

Your pet is shaking uncontrollably

If your pet is shaking uncontrollably, especially if they are also unable to respond when you call to them, then they may have been poisoned. Lots of toxins affect a pet's neurological system and can cause uncontrollable body movements.

For more information, contact a hospital like Graceful Animal Hospital.