Yanis Darras 18:00 pm, March 22, 2023

Domestic accident, or intentional action. Poisonings are common in dogs. And faced with the sometimes impressive symptoms, it is important for owners to know the right reflexes to successfully save the life of their companion. But what are they? Europe 1 takes stock.

But who wants to harm our dogs? Several poisonings of these faithful companions have been reported in France in recent months. Last November, several dogs were poisoned in La Seyne-sur-Mer, near Toulon, after swallowing meatballs on the sidewalks of the town.

Last week, in the Gard, three dogs died during a canicross competition. A fourth is still in serious condition. Same scenario as in southern France: nearly 11 meatballs, suspected of being soaked in a pesticide against slugs banned for years in France, were found on the course of the competition. Faced with the multiplication of these acts, it is strongly advised to know the right reflexes to save the life of your companion. But then, how to react in case of canine poisoning?

Identify the substance

It should be noted, however, that the vast majority of poisonings occur... at our own home. Dogs, curious by nature, can find themselves in contact with household products or medicines for humans in particular, by searching in the nooks and crannies of your home.

So, at the first symptoms (vomiting, breathing difficulties, convulsions, etc ...), it is important to contact the Veterinary Poison Control Center, which will explain the steps to follow, if you have identified the product with which your pet has poisoned itself. If the substance is unknown, however, you must go quickly to your veterinarian.

Avoid self-medication

Above all, owners should not try to treat their pet themselves, without the advice of a veterinarian. It is also advisable not to make him drink milk, at the risk of accelerating intoxication by promoting the absorption of toxic substances in the body.

The only recommended solution is to go to the veterinarian, where an eliminatory treatment will be put in place. A medically vomiting effect will be prescribed, sometimes followed by an intravenous infusion and laxatives. Anti-emetic, anti-diarrheal and anticonvulsant drugs will also be administered depending on the symptoms presented. Antidotes also exist for certain products, including rat poisons, which are used to kill rats.

Finally, to avoid any accident, owners are strongly encouraged to store the most toxic products, high up, away from the reach of dogs.