Pet poisoning is serious and mostly preventable. Pet owners can keep their companions safe by being aware of foods and household substances that can be poisonous, including:

  • chocolate
  • grapes/raisins
  • xylitol (artificial sweetener)
  • alcoholic beveragesrodenticide
  • acetaminophen/ibuprofen
  • antifreeze
  • macadamia nuts
  • onions
  • houseplants, aloe, flower bouquets
  • mushrooms
  • cleaning products
  • avocado
  • flower bouquets
  • recreational drugs

If your dog ingests something toxic, contact your local veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 immediately. If your vet or poison control center suggests inducing vomiting, make your own emetic to make your pet vomit:

Hydrogen peroxide is an irritant to a dog’s intestinal tract and typically works within 10 to 15 minutes of being ingested. The proper dosage is one teaspoon of 3% hydrogen peroxide per five pounds of the dog’s body weight by mouth, with a maximum dose of 3 tablespoons for dogs who weigh more than 45 pounds. Only induce vomiting under the guidance of an expert and within two hours of the dog consuming the substance. Use a syringe to squirt the solution between the dog’s back teeth, being careful not to let the pet inhale the substance. Do not let the dog eat the vomit, which some pets are bound to try. Vomiting can cause dehydration, so make sure the dog has plenty of access to fresh water if the vet advises no further action.

Hydrogen peroxide is not typically effective at inducing vomiting in cats, and poisoning may require further consultation with a professional health care provider.