How to recognize signs of poisoning in dogs

Common signs of poisoning in dogs include gums or tongue turning shades of green, purple, white, or brick red. If your dog's heart rate exceeds 180 beats per minute, you should take them to the vet immediately. Poisoned dogs typically have a body temperature higher than 39°C. Pay attention if your dog becomes unsteady or disoriented. Vomiting and diarrhea are also frequent symptoms of poisoning. Additionally, poisoned dogs may experience labored and heavy breathing for more than 30 minutes or wheeze. A sudden loss of appetite is another sign of poisoning. It's crucial to visit a vet if you suspect poisoning.

Check the dog's mouth. The gums and tongue can change color from a pale blue-grey to a slightly pink hue. If the gums turn black, it's important to examine the dog's tongue as well. If the gums or tongue appear green, purple, white, brick red, or bright red, take your dog to a vet immediately. Color changes in the gums and tongue signal poor blood circulation.

• You can also perform the "capillary refill time" (CRT) test to check if any toxins are hindering blood flow. Lift the dog’s upper lip and press the canine gum with your thumb. Release your thumb and observe the color of the pressed area. Normally, the gum will turn from white to pink within 2 seconds. If it takes longer than 3 seconds, seek veterinary assistance immediately.

Check the heart rate. If the heart rate exceeds 180 beats per minute, the dog may be poisoned and should be taken to the vet immediately. A normal resting heart rate for an adult dog is around 70-140 beats per minute. Larger dogs generally have a slower heart rate.

• You can check and feel the dog’s heart rate by placing your hand on the left side of their chest, just behind the front leg. To calculate the beats per minute, count the beats for 15 seconds and multiply by 4.
• For accuracy, you may want to record the dog's normal heart rate in a notebook for future reference. Some dogs may have a naturally faster heart rate.

Measure the dog’s body temperature with a thermometer. The normal temperature range for dogs is about 38-39°C. Fever in dogs does not necessarily indicate poisoning, but it can be a sign of various other illnesses. Stress or excitement may cause an increase in body temperature. If the dog is lethargic, unwell, and has an elevated temperature, you should contact a veterinarian immediately.

• It’s recommended to have someone assist you in measuring the dog’s temperature. One person should hold the dog’s head while the other inserts the thermometer into the dog’s rectum under the tail. Lubricate the thermometer with petroleum jelly or K-Y jelly. A digital thermometer is the best option.

Check the dog’s balance. If the dog appears dizzy, disoriented, or unsteady, it could be experiencing neurological or heart issues, or low blood sugar due to poisoning. Seek veterinary attention immediately if you notice signs of imbalance in your dog.

Observe for vomiting and diarrhea. Vomiting and diarrhea are abnormal signs. The dog may be trying to expel the toxins through vomiting and diarrhea. Pay attention to the color, consistency, and content of the dog’s vomit and stool. Typically, dog stool is firm and brown. Contact a veterinarian immediately if the dog’s stool is loose, yellow, green, or dark black in color.

Watch your dog's breathing. Panting is a common and natural way for dogs to regulate their body temperature. However, if panting becomes labored, prolonged for over 30 minutes, it might signal an issue with your dog's heart or breathing system. If you hear wheezing or notice irregular breathing, immediately take your dog to the vet as they may have ingested something toxic to their lungs.

• To check your dog's breathing rate in one minute, observe their chest, count the number of breaths in 15 seconds, then multiply by 4. A normal rate of breathing for dogs is between 10 and 30 breaths per minute.

Monitor for signs of appetite loss. Sudden refusal to eat could indicate that your dog has consumed a toxic substance. Call your veterinarian right away if your dog has not eaten for more than 24 hours.

Record detailed symptoms in your dog. Write down any initial signs of poisoning and the actions you’ve taken to alleviate these symptoms. The more information you provide, the better assistance you will receive from veterinary experts.

• Do not let your dog drink water after poisoning. Water can help spread toxins more rapidly throughout their body.

Identify the source of the poison. Walk around your home and yard to locate any potential toxins such as rat poison, antifreeze, mushrooms, or fertilizers. Be on the lookout for overturned boxes, broken prescription bottles, spilled liquids, or scattered household chemicals.

• If you suspect your dog has ingested a harmful substance, check the packaging for safety warnings. Many toxic products list a phone number for customer inquiries. Here are some common poisons that dogs may ingest:
• Wild mushrooms (check each type of mushroom in reference materials)
• Rancid walnuts
• Oleander plant
• Lily flowers/Lily plant bulbs
• Evergreen plants
• Jimson weed
• Household cleaning products
• Snail bait (contains Metaldehyde)
• Pesticides
• Herbicides
• Some fertilizers
• Chocolate (especially dark chocolate or baking chocolate)
• Xylitol (sugar-free gum)
• Macadamia nuts
• Onions
• Grapes/raisins
• Raw dough
• Alcohol (ethanol)

Contact the Poison Control Center or a Veterinarian. The Poison Control Center's hotline is not just for humans. Poisoning can have the same harmful effects on both humans and dogs, so Poison Control can provide guidance in these situations. Additionally, you may reach out to a veterinarian. Be sure to describe the symptoms and potential causes of poisoning. Discuss with the vet any concerns related to your dog's condition and ask if the symptoms require immediate medical attention.

• Do not induce vomiting unless advised by a professional. After two hours, the poison may naturally exit the stomach, but if your dog is experiencing difficulty breathing, dizziness, or loss of consciousness, forcing them to vomit may cause choking.

Take Your Dog to the Veterinarian. Time is critical when it comes to treating poisoning in dogs. If symptoms persist after the initial diagnosis by the vet, it's important to take your dog to the clinic immediately. If the symptoms last for more than a week or occur at night, locate the nearest veterinary clinic within 24 hours for further evaluation.