Top 10 things in a London flat that send dogs to the emergency vet

Most London-based owners know to watch out for the busy roads, but did you know that there are hidden dangers lurking in your flat? Every day, emergency vets treat dogs for accidents that happen inside the home, often involving things owners never realised were dangerous.

Key takeaways

• Certain foods are highly toxic to dogs, so always double check before sharing anything or leaving it within their reach

• Many human medications are toxic to dogs, even in small amounts. It is best to keep medicines behind lock and key.

• Beware of products used to keep your home looking and smelling clean. Many of the chemicals and essential oils used can be poisonous to your furry friend

• Not every dog has the sense to avoid jumping from a height, so windows and balconies must always be secure

1. Chocolate and Cocoa

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, which are toxic to dogs when eaten in sufficient quantities. Dark chocolate is the most potent form, while white chocolate is practically non-toxic. Baking chocolate and cocoa powder contain the highest amounts of theobromine, so baked goods can be especially dangerous.

Signs develop within 6-12 hours and can include vomiting, restlessness, excess thirst and tremors. Consuming large amounts of chocolate can even lead to irregular heart rhythms and seizures.

2. Grapes, Raisins and Sultanas

We now know that it is the tartaric acid that makes this fruit toxic. Just a handful of grapes (whether dried or fresh) can pose a real danger. Signs of toxicity can include vomiting and diarrhoea within the first 12-24 hours and a change in thirst or urination within 2-3 days, as the kidneys start to fail.

It is best to induce vomiting as soon as the pet consumes the grapes or raisins, to prevent any kidney damage from occurring.

3. Human Painkillers and Medications

Whether you have well-meaningly shared your medicine with your dog or they have managed to snaffle some, we have to be hugely cautious when it comes to human medicines. Drugs like Ibuprofen, Codeine, ADHD medicines and anti-deppressants are often implicated.

As soon as your pet consumes any human medicine, you’ll want to contact the emergency vet for advice. They will likely want you to come in so they can induce vomiting and provide supportive care.

4. Xylitol in Sugar-Free Gum and Peanut Butter

Xylitol is a sweetener that can be toxic to dogs. In small amounts it causes low blood sugar, while higher quantities can lead to acute liver failure. Xylitol can be an ingredient in some sweet treats, gums or nut butters. Always read packets carefully before offering food, and never use human toothpaste on your pet.

5. Toxic Houseplants

A surprising amount of plants are toxic to pets. You can scan the ASPCA list to ensure none of the plants in your home are dangerous. Common symptoms of plant toxicity would include drooling, oral ulcers, and vomiting. Many plants taste bitter, which can be useful when it comes to deterring larger consumptions.

6. Essential Oils and Diffusers

Although diffusers may seem harmless, many contain toxic essential oils. These can cause toxicity when inhaled, when there is contact with the skin or if the product is eaten. Some of the more toxic essential oils include eucalyptus, pine, and citrus.

7. Cleaning Products and Detergent Pods

Much like when there are toddlers about, all cleaning products should be kept well out of reach of your dog, whatever age they are. Many of them are caustic and can cause eye ulcers, oral ulcers and gastric upset. If your pet has a known exposure, contact your vet right away.

Inducing vomiting may not always be advisable, depending on how corrosive the substance is.

8. Chewed Cables, Chargers and Batteries

Technology has many pluses, but it does pose an undeniable threat to our pets. This is especially true for young puppies and kittens, who will typically explore their home by chewing cables and batteries.

As well as the risk of an electric shock, these types of products can also cause internal burns and blockages. Best to keep them well away from your furry friend.

9. Falls From Balconies and Windows

Cats are most often implicated when it comes to misjudged jumps and falls, but dogs can be affected too. As well as keeping pets away from balconies and windows, it is wise to keep them blocked off with fences, chicken wire or bamboo. You’ll also want to keep any furniture away from the edges.

10. Swallowed Objects and Blockages

It is very common for pets to chew and even swallow indigestible items. Some common culprits would include socks, underwear, toys, bones, and string. There is a real risk of these items causing gut obstructions, particularly in the narrow small intestine.

What to Do If Your Dog Eats or Swallows Something

While some objects will pass through over time, others will not. Your vet will determine if any action is needed, depending on what has been swallowed.

Act Fast and Call a Vet

The sooner you contact your vet the better, as they will likely want to intervene before the object has had a chance to move on from the stomach. This may mean inducing vomiting, or perhaps using a small camera (endsoscope) to remove the item.

What Not to Do

Never attempt to remove an item from your dog’s throat or to induce vomiting at home. While you may see old-fashioned advice online that tells you to induce vomiting with things like salt or mustard, this can do more harm and is ineffective.

When to Call an Emergency Vet in London

Contact a 24/7 vet any time if you are concerned your pet is in any danger, is not well or has been exposed to something toxic or irritant. The team can let you know whether or not an out of hours vet visit would be appropriate.

London Flat Dangers for Dogs: FAQs

What are the most common household dangers for dogs?

Common dangers found inside most London flats include certain foods, plants, medicines, and cleaning products. There is also a risk of them falling from windows or balconies or for eating non-food items..

What should I do if my dog eats something toxic?

Contact the emergency vet as soon as possible if you suspect your dog has eaten a toxin. In some cases, having the pet seen promptly can be the difference between a full recovery and an animal passing away.

Are houseplants dangerous to dogs?

Some plants can be dangerous to dogs, and it is not immediately always obvious which are the worst ones. Examples of poisonous plants include sago palms, holly and hyacinths..

Can a vet come to my flat in an emergency?

Yes, oftentimes a vet would be able to come see you and your dog in your flat. Call ahead and let the emergency veterinarian know that this is your preference.