Dog Poisoning: Symptoms and Treatment

Dogs accompany us in almost all our daily activities, which exposes them to substances that can be toxic if ingested. This is especially concerning for a species that is not very selective about what it puts in its mouth. There are various types of poisoning in dogs, such as those caused by toads, harmful foods, or toxic plants, whose consumption can be dangerous. Some foods and plants that can cause poisoning include grapes, onions, fruit pits from nectarines or peaches, and plants such as azaleas, oleanders, ivy, hydrangeas, or kalanchoes, among others.

This article focuses on poisonings caused by toxic substances that can come into contact with our dogs and endanger their lives if not addressed in time. If you're interested in learning about the main causes of poisoning in dogs, as well as their symptoms and how to act, keep reading.

Most Common Types of Poisoning in Dogs

Dogs can be poisoned by numerous substances, but the main ones include:

• NSAID Poisoning (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Mainly caused by acetaminophen (paracetamol), ibuprofen, or acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). Dogs have a deficiency in the enzyme responsible for metabolizing these compounds, hepatic glucuronyl transferase, which causes them to remain in their system longer, leading to toxicity even at low doses.
• Chocolate and Methylxanthine Poisoning: Includes substances like theophylline, theobromine, and caffeine. These compounds increase cyclic AMP (cAMP) and catecholamines, acting as competitive antagonists of adenosine receptors in cells, causing an increase in intracellular calcium, leading to greater muscle contractility.
• Poisoning from Garbage or Spoiled Food: Dead bacteria release toxic endotoxins, causing central nervous system symptoms and gastrointestinal issues. In severe cases, it can lead to death, preceded by disseminated intravascular coagulation and acute respiratory distress syndrome.
• Poisoning from Pesticides and External Parasiticides: Organophosphates and carbamates (Dichlorvos, Parathion, Diazinon, Carbofuran, Propoxur, Malathion, Propofos, Methiocarb...) inhibit cholinesterase enzymes, causing muscarinic and nicotinic symptoms in dogs.
• Coumarin Poisoning: Anticoagulant rodenticides such as bromadiolone, dicoumarol, or warfarin, used to control mice and rats. These substances cause hemorrhages in dogs that ingest them.

Symptoms of Poisoning in Dogs

The symptoms of poisoning in dogs depend largely on the toxic agent involved. Different toxins cause different signs, such as:

Chocolate and Methylxanthine Poisoning

Symptoms appear within hours of ingestion and include:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Nervousness
• Tachycardia
• Tremors
• Ventricular arrhythmias
• Hyperthermia
• Hypertension
• Seizures
• Coma
• Death

Coumarin Poisoning

Symptoms appear within the first four days and affect blood clotting, causing:

• Internal bleeding
• Subcutaneous hematomas
• Pale gums
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Difficulty breathing
• Nasal and fecal bleeding
• Ataxia
• Seizures

Carbamate and Organophosphate Poisoning

Since these substances increase acetylcholine effects by inhibiting acetylcholinesterase, symptoms include:

• Muscle fasciculations
• Pupil constriction
• Excessive salivation
• Bradycardia
• Urinary incontinence
• Respiratory distress
• Bronchoconstriction
• Seizures
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting

NSAID Poisoning

NSAIDs inhibit the release of inflammatory mediators but can cause serious side effects. Paracetamol poisoning occurs at doses over 150 mg/kg, leading to:

• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Gastrointestinal ulcers and bleeding
• Abdominal pain
• Kidney and liver damage
• Ataxia
• Seizures
• Coma

Causes of Poisoning in Dogs

The primary cause of poisoning in dogs is ingestion—either direct or indirect—of toxic substances. Some common examples include:

• NSAID Poisoning: Dogs often ingest ibuprofen, aspirin, or acetaminophen left within their reach, or given to them by owners unaware of their toxicity.
• Chocolate Poisoning: Unlike cats, dogs can perceive sweet flavors, making them attracted to chocolate. Toxic doses range from 180 mg to 1 kg per kilogram of body weight.
• Carbamate and Organophosphate Poisoning: Often caused by external parasite treatments, insecticides, or rodenticides, either through accidental ingestion, improper dosing, or malicious intent.
• Garbage or Toxic Plant Poisoning: Occurs due to the dog’s natural curiosity.
• Coumarin Poisoning: Usually results from the ingestion of rodenticides or eating poisoned rodents.

Diagnosing Poisoning in Dogs

Veterinarians diagnose poisoning based on clinical signs, which often include vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate, tremors, seizures, hyperactivity, lack of coordination, or breathing difficulties. However, these symptoms are non-specific and can resemble other medical conditions, so obtaining a thorough history from the owner about the dog’s recent activities and ingestion is essential.

Treatment for Poisoning in Dogs

In cases of poisoning, acting quickly is crucial. The general steps to follow include:

1. Stabilizing the Patient: Providing cardiovascular support, controlling arrhythmias, correcting electrolyte imbalances, maintaining open airways, and ensuring proper ventilation and oxygenation. Temperature regulation and seizure management (e.g., with diazepam) are also essential.
2. Minimizing Toxin Absorption: Inducing vomiting within three hours of ingestion can eliminate up to 80% of the toxin. However, this should not be done in cases of seizures, breathing difficulties, or corrosive toxin ingestion.
3. Gastric Lavage: If vomiting is ineffective, gastric lavage can be performed under anesthesia using activated charcoal to absorb toxins.
4. Eliminating the Toxin: Diuretics like furosemide or mannitol help flush toxins through the kidneys, provided the dog is hydrated and producing urine. Fluid therapy also aids in toxin elimination.
5. Administering an Antidote: Some toxins have specific antidotes. For example, N-acetylcysteine is used for acetaminophen poisoning and must be administered intravenously within 12 hours of ingestion. Its effects become noticeable after 48 hours as it restores glutathione levels, which have antioxidant and detoxifying properties.

What to Do If Your Dog Is Poisoned at Home?

If your dog is poisoned at home, take them to a veterinary clinic immediately. The longer the toxin remains in their digestive system, the more it is absorbed, increasing the risk of life-threatening complications. Provide the vet with as much information as possible about the type and amount of substance your dog consumed.

How to Prevent Poisoning in Dogs?

To prevent poisoning in dogs, follow these precautions:

• Supervise them during walks to prevent them from eating garbage or toxic substances such as rodenticides.
• Keep medications out of their reach, especially NSAIDs like ibuprofen, aspirin, and acetaminophen.
• Avoid feeding them unfamiliar foods without checking their safety first.
• Ensure they do not have access to toxic plants inside the home.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. At DogPawClean, we are not authorized to prescribe veterinary treatments or make diagnoses. If your pet experiences any symptoms or conditions, consult a veterinarian immediately.