Poisoning with rat poison

Walking with a dog on the street, we may not notice when he picks up something from the ground. Sometimes it can be a piece of stick, and sometimes it can be a treat with a deadly danger inside. 

Why is it DANGEROUS? 

The principle of action of rat poison in the dog's body is based on the presence of an active ingredient - an anticoagulant. Usually, it is a rodenticide of the "second generation anticoagulants" type, such as coumarin, brodifacoum, difenacoum, etc.

If your dog accidentally eats food or things that contain rat poison, it can lead to serious consequences.

Anticoagulants work by reducing the body's ability to synthesize vitamin K, which is responsible for blood clotting. If it is impaired, dangerous bleeding can occur in the dog's body.

The first few hours after a rat poisoning can be critical, so immediate action by the owner and timely help are crucial to further save the animal.

Symptoms of poisoning:

Usually do not appear immediately, but occur some time after the poison is absorbed, when the level of vitamin K in the dog's body is sufficiently reduced.

After contact with rat poison, your dog may show the following symptoms:

•  Bleeding from the nose, gums, or other places.
•  Bruises that appear for no apparent reason.
•  Vomiting, diarrhea with blood.
•  Weakness and loss of appetite.
•  Internal bleeding.

HELP:

•  Call your veterinarian or clinic immediately to report the situation and make an emergency appointment.
•  Try to remain calm and do not panic.
•  Do not try to administer vomiting stimulants yourself - this can worsen the animal's condition.
•  If the clinic removed what the dog ate from the body, this does not exclude the possibility of symptoms later. It is necessary to control the dog's blood clotting every 3 days (blood coagulation test), examine for bruises.
•  Prophylactically, as prescribed by a doctor, give vitamin K.

PREVENTION:

•  Walk your dog on a leash, especially in areas where there may be stray animals.
•  Do not allow your dog to pick up anything from the ground.
•  Follow the rules of sanitation in the house to avoid accidental spillage of toxic substances.

SUMMARY:

• Rat poison intoxication is a serious condition for a dog, but timely detection of symptoms and first aid before arriving at the clinic can save your pet's life.
• Remember the importance of preventive measures to help prevent poisoning and ensure a long and healthy life for your dog.
• In case of suspected poisoning, contact veterinary specialists immediately, as their professional help is crucial for the successful rescue of your animal.

Be careful to keep an eye on your pet while walking.