Aramis, a 10 month old beagle, was left suffering with neurological signs soon after he was spotted swallowing a packet of an unknown legal high found on a beach in Scotland. The puppy had to be rushed to the vets (Picture: Cascade) Within an hour post ingestion, Aramis was taken to Robson Veterinary Hospital, by which time he… Read More

Ethylene glycol poisoning is very serious in cats; unless treatment is started within a few hours the prognosis is considered very grave. Indeed, even a very small amount (around a teaspoon of concentrated antifreeze) can cause kidney failure and death. Many cats present too late for effective treatment and either die or are put to… Read More

Although alcohol is available year round, it is often drunk in larger quantities over the festive season. Dogs will drink most forms of alcohol (e.g. beer, wine, spirits), but do seem to have a fondness for a particular brand of Irish whiskey and cream based liqueur ; indeed almost 20% of our canine ethanol cases… Read More

Xylitol is a sugar-free sweetener commonly found in many chewing gums, sweets, foods, oral rinses, toothpastes and supplements. It exists naturally in fruit and vegetables (in low concentrations) and is a normal intermediary metabolite in glucose metabolism.  It is also popular in people with diabetes or on low-carbohydrate diets. Xylitol may be listed in the ingredients list… Read More

Around this time of year, glow sticks are a cause for concern. Sold during Bonfire Night and Halloween celebrations, these tubes made of pliable soft plastic (easily chewed through by a playful dog or cat) contain a liquid that glows in the dark. Although the chemicals inside these items are of low toxicity, they are… Read More

A 4 month old Yorkshire terrier vomited the day after ingestion of Slider fireworks. He vomited the next day and was weak with diarrhoea. On presentation blood tests showed he had hypoglycaemia. He was given IV fluids but remained recumbent. An X-ray showed ascites. The dog deteriorated and died during exploratory abdominal surgery. Post-mortem examination… Read More

Tea tree oil is an essential oil that owners often apply to their pet’s skin for a variety of reasons, the most common being as a flea repellent or to relieve the symptoms of a skin irritation. It is assumed that because it is a natural product they can use it with no adverse consequences.… Read More

Sago palm (Cycas revoluta) is a popular ornamental plant; however many are not aware of its toxicity in pets. A recent news article reported two dogs becoming seriously unwell following ingestion of king sago palm, with one dog sadly dying as a result of liver failure. There are several toxins present in cycads rendering all… Read More

With recent votes legalising the use of both recreational and medicinal cannabis in some US states (Colorado, Washington, Alaska and Oregon) and the growing popularity of cannabis-infused pet products, there has been a lot of discussion around its effect in animals. The US’ Pet Poison Helpline have reported a 200% increase in the number of enquiries they have… Read More

Branded “the most dangerous plant in Britain”,  hogweed has been making headlines following several news reports of severe dermal reactions in both humans and animals after contact. The plant is rapidly spreading throughout the UK and Ireland, and tends to be found around watersides as well as in grassy areas and open woods. Heracleum mantegazzianum… Read More