IS IT GOOD OR IS IT BAD? THE THINGS THEY EAT…(PART2

[Cathy C. Bennett]

Thanks for coming back for part 2….

So last week in “part 1″, I focused on the boys eating so much grass! They aren’t sick (at least not to my knowledge) when they ingest the “green blades of yum”, yet they continue to nibble when we’re outside. As I surfed the net looking for information, I began to think about all the other “bad things” they could get into to include inside our own home.

In my internet travels I stumbled upon a phone app (right now with IPhone) for pet poisons. I know – you know – there are substances in and around your home that are hazardous to your pet? Of course you do! your a “good” pet parent. You buy “silk” Poinsettias during the holidays, and you know to keep the chocolate candies out of their reach. But do you know what to do when they get a hold of the chocolate?

What about when you are on a walk, or in your garage, and before you realize it, they’ve eaten some “found” treasure that isn’t a treasure at all? Do you know or have something with you readily available to tell you what you’re supposed to do first?

So I found this:

A “Pet Poison Helpline” http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/2012/03/pet-poison-help-our-new-ip... at your fingertips.

For just pennies – you can download information on hundreds of household products and plants that are potentially toxic to your pet with steps to take if your dog is exposed to one of these toxins.

Pet parents can now quickly identify potential poisons, recognize the symptoms, while getting help from the helpline.

For only .99 cents they will provide:

• Life -saving access to poison information with one-touch direct dialing to Pet Poison Helpline

• A searchable database of over 250 poisonous plants, foods, medications and household items, all with pictures! (love the pictures)

• Description of how specific poisons affect your pet, their alternate common names, and symptoms to watch for

• Instructions on what to do if your pet is exposed to a dangerous substance

• Constant access to poison information – even when you don’t have internet access.

This app is so easy to maneuver through, and the screens are really easy to read. For me, I find the information invaluable.

LET US PRETEND…. Leo decides to munch on a “firestarter log” (insane, and scary because I could see it…). This is “toxic” to dogs. I “whip out my phone” and look at the screen:

According to the helpline app: “generally mild to moderate, potentially requiring surgery.”

I’m then given the symptoms:

• Drooling

• Vomiting

• Loss of appetite

• Distended Stomach

• Retching

And if that’s not enough, I’m given the symptom “description” as well. Then I can read the instructions as I contact the helpline right from the app page itself!

This is such a vital and important tool, I will not be surprised when this app becomes available with MORE smart phones in the very near future – it should! It is outstanding – and I hope to never have to use it, but what a comfort to know it’s there.

So all you Pet Parent IPhone readers, arm yourselves – this is the best spent $0 .99 ever. And everyone else, while you wait for your phone to get this app – please bookmark this website http://www.petpoisonhelpline.com familiarize yourself with it’s functions AND be on the “look-out” for when your wireless service offers it to you.

The Boys & I send this DOODLE hug to Apple & Pet Poison Helpline

FOR MORE ADVENTURES - VISIT: www.groovygoldendoodles.com

 

 

 

Thanks for reading -

[Liana & Jindi]

Thank you so much for sharing. I just bought the app now & I hope I never have to use it as well. Great to know it is there for reference.

[Anne & Mr. Haley]

Thanks for the link.  Too bad there isn't an android version.

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Thanks for sharing!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Thanks.  Too bad I don't have a phone that takes apps.

[Kaytlin and Cooper]

wow that is a good app - if i ever get a phone that can "do that stuff" I will get the app!