Spring Cleaning? Try this Pet & Planet Friendly Idea from the ASPCA

It’s time for spring cleaning, but before throwing your dusty treasures away, call your local shelter—they may need old towels, bedding, leashes and pet toys.

Tomlinson's Warning about Poisonous Plants for Pets

A customer who recently visited Tomlinson's Westlake store told them that she had come very close to losing her two dogs because they had eaten the clippings of a Sago palm that she had cut back. Sago palms are common in the central Texas area and VERY TOXIC. Dogs that ingest them rarely survive! See a photo of a Sago palm and more information here.

The ASPCA has put together an exhaustive list of plants that are toxic to pets - over 700! While looking through them, I began to wonder if there are any safe ones out there. Here is a list of the 10 most common poisonous plants:

1. Azalea - The toxins in azalea plants can be very severe and potentially cause drooling, diarrhea, vomiting, central nervous system weakening and depression, and in some cases possibly coma or death.
2. Castor Bean - Poisoning as a result of this plant can cause abdominal pain, drooling, diarrhea, vomiting increased thirst, loss of appetite and weakness. More serious cases could also lead to dehydration, tremors, seizures, twitching muscles, coma and possibly death.
3. Cyclamen - The most poisonous portion of this plant is located in the root. Ingestion of the plant can cause severe vomiting and gastrointestinal irritation. In some cases death has been reported as a result.
4. Kalanchoe - Ingestion of this plant can cause gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac rhythm and rate problems.
5. Lilies - Plants of the lily variety are very poisonous to cats. Even very small amounts of this plant could cause serious kidney damage.
6. Marijuana - Animals who attempt to snack on this plant can suffer serious consequences such as diarrhea, vomiting, increased heart rate, drooling, in-coordination, and even possibly seizures and coma.
7. Oleander - All portions of this plant are poisonous and can cause gastrointestinal irritation, hypothermia, heart problems and possibly death.
8. Sago Palm - While the seeds and nuts of this plant are most poisonous, the entire plant is toxic. Animals ingesting parts of this plant may suffer from diarrhea, vomiting, depression, seizures and liver failure.
9. Tulips - The toxic portion of this plant is the actual bulb, which can cause drooling, central nervous system depression, gastrointestinal irritation, cardiac issues and convulsions.
10. Yew - Poisoning as a result of the yew plant can affect the nervous system and cause in-coordination, trembling and breathing difficulties. It may also result in gastrointestinal irritation, cardiac failure and could possibly lead to death.

NOTE: If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned, contact the ASPCA Poison Control Center at 1-888-426-4435. This is 24 hour a day hotline. (In some cases a consultation fee may be charged to your credit card.)

This list has been compiled using the following sources:

American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
Earth Clinic

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5 tips from ASPCA for keeping your pet healthy

1. Check-up on your pet's health.

Set up your pet's annual check-up this year. A nose to tail exam can help your veterinarian spot and treat health issues in the early stages. Opt for wellness coverage including an annual physical exam!

2. Brush those pearly whites.

Pledge to brush your pet's teeth regularly, and keep an eye out for signs of gum disease like swelling or discoloration. Ask your veterinarian for tips on good dental care. Plus, Level 4 covers an annual dental cleaning.

3. Watch your pet's weight.

Extra weight on a pet can result in health problems and be like a person carrying an extra 30 to 50 pounds. Hold back on treats and use a well-balanced pet food.

4. Get your pet moving.

Is your pet getting enough exercise to stay fit? Dogs need at least 30 minutes of physical activity twice a day. Cats should get at least 15 minutes of interactive playtime a day.

5. Prepare financially for your pet's care.

ASPCA Pet Health Insurance can help you manage unexpected veterinary costs.
It can also cover wellness care to help you keep your pet healthy year round.
Learn more and get a free quote.

Why Cold Weather Can Be Just as Dangerous for Your Pet as the Sweltering Days of Summer

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Do’s and Don’ts for Keeping Your Furry Friend Fit and Trim

From Mercola Healthy Pets

DO feed a balanced, species-appropriate diet. If you’re currently feeding inferior food to your pet, set a goal to gradually improve the quality.

DON’T feed your pet an all-day all-she-can-eat-buffet. In order to take weight off your cat or dog and keep it off, you must feed controlled portions – usually a morning and evening meal, carefully measured.

DO make sure your pet is adequately exercised on a consistent basis. Your dog or cat needs to elevate his heart rate for a minimum of 20 minutes several times a week in order to move his body into a fat-burning state. There are any number of physical activities you can involve your dog in, even during the long, cold winter months. It’s just as important to get overweight kitties moving.

DON’T believe the marketing claims of ‘low fat’ commercial pet foods. These formulas are full of carbs and fiber – exactly what your pet’s body doesn’t need.

DO factor treats you feed your pet into the daily calorie plan. Keep in mind pre-packaged commercial treats are a primary reason for excess weight in many pets. These snacks are loaded with carbs, sugar and fat and are specifically designed to create intense cravings in your dog or cat.

DO partner with an integrative or holistic veterinarian to design a weight loss plan customized for your dog or cat, and take your pet for regular wellness visits to manage her weight and her overall health.

What Your Dog Says About You

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