Dogs are known to get into things they shouldn̵7;t, and sometimes insecticide poisoning is the result. Insecticides, even if used properly, can be extremely dangerous to dogs. It is important for dog owners to recognize insecticide poisoning so they can get the necessary help if it occurs.
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Identification
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Insecticides are products that are used to kill insects. These chemical products are usually used on lawns or gardens, with some targeting specific insects such as ticks.
Chemicals
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The most common chemicals that cause poisoning are organophosphate or carbamate insecticides. Additional chemicals that are used as insecticides include carbofuran, acephate, chlorpyrifos, disulfoton, methomyl and malathion.
Symptoms
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Symptoms of canine insecticide poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, fever, depression, seizures or muscle tremors, increased heart rate, loss of coordination when walking, difficulty breathing and hypersalivation.
Treatment
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Treatment will vary based on how long the toxin has been in the dog̵7;s body. Treatment options include physically washing out the stomach by using a tube; activated charcoal; toxin-specific antidotal treatments; an oxygen cage for breathing; antiseizure medications; and fluid therapy.
Misconceptions
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Monthly flea and tick medications are also considered insecticides. However, they do not contain the same chemicals as mentioned above and are safe when used as instructed.
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