As any parent (pet or human) can attest, children and pets share a common trait: as soon as you turn your back, they're always into something! Whether it's a toddler exploring the house or a curious puppy sniffing around, both can find themselves in places they shouldn't be, and sometimes, that curiosity leads them toward dangerous situations.
It’s essential to be extra vigilant about the potential hazards in your home—especially when it comes to keeping your little ones and furry friends safe. Many common household items, from cleaning supplies to medications, can be toxic if ingested, and both children and pets tend to be more curious (and more vulnerable) than adults when it comes to investigating new things.
I remember a time when my farm dog came home, and her legs were covered in what I thought was blood. It turned out she had gone to the neighbors and snagged some BBQ ribs. Or the time I was on the phone, and my toddler decided to eat my husband's multivitamin gummies. What crazy thing has your child (human or nonhuman) gotten into?
Here are some important tips to help keep your kids—and pets—safe from poisons:
1. Store Hazardous Items Out of Reach
Children and pets are both naturally inquisitive, so always store medications, cleaning products, and chemicals in cabinets or drawers that are locked or too high for them to reach. Avoid leaving these items on countertops or tables where they can easily grab them.
2. Childproof and Petproof Your Home
Childproofing goes hand-in-hand with petproofing. Install safety locks on cabinets and doors, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, and garages, where harmful substances are often stored. For pets, make sure food items that could be dangerous, such as chocolate, grapes, or certain nuts, are kept well out of reach.
3. Keep Plants Away
Many common houseplants are toxic to both children and pets. Plants like lilies, azaleas, and poinsettias can cause serious illness if ingested. Ensure plants are placed in areas that are off-limits to both curious kids and pets or choose non-toxic varieties for your home.
4. Educate Your Family
Teaching children and other household members about the dangers of touching, tasting, or playing with unknown substances is key. While pets may not understand, training them to stay away from certain areas or objects can also help prevent accidents. Positive reinforcement can go a long way in establishing boundaries for your furry friends.
5. Be Prepared for Emergencies
Accidents happen. It's always a good idea to have the Poison Control helpline number saved on your phone. For pets, contact information for your local emergency veterinary clinic or pet poison hotline should also be readily available. Quick action can make all the difference if an emergency arises.
6. Watch for Symptoms
Both kids and pets may not immediately show signs if they've ingested something harmful. Symptoms can range from mild to severe, so it's important to stay alert for any changes in behavior. If you suspect poisoning, contact a medical professional or veterinarian immediately.
7. Check Your Medications and Supplements
Medications—whether over-the-counter or prescription—are a major risk for young children and pets. Always store them in childproof containers and ensure vitamins or supplements (which can be equally toxic) are out of sight and reach.
As National Poison Prevention Week reminds us, prevention is the key to keeping our loved ones safe. By staying vigilant and childproofing your home, you can ensure that both your children and pets are safe from potential dangers lurking in your household.
Remember, a little extra caution today can make all the difference tomorrow! Stay safe, and let’s protect what matters most.
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Candice Hinkle
Assistant Director
Program for Pet Health Equity
Knoxville, TN
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