Intoxication in dogs: recognising and responding to poisoning in Dubai pets

What is intoxication or poisoning in dogs?

Intoxication happens when a dog is exposed to enough of a harmful substance to damage their body. Common causes include:

• Pest poisons: rodenticides, slug pellets, and insecticides used around homes or gardens
• Human foods: chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, avocados, and products containing xylitol
• Human medications and supplements: painkillers such as ibuprofen and paracetamol, antidepressants, vitamin D creams or tablets
• Household products: cleaning agents, antifreeze, fertilisers, and detergents
• Plants and mushrooms: certain ornamental plants
• Accidental overdose: of prescribed pet medications

Symptoms of intoxication in dogs

Symptoms vary, depending on the type and amount of toxin involved, as well as the dog’s size and any other health concerns. Some common signs to look out for include:

• Vomiting and diarrhoea
• Drooling or foaming at the mouth
• Drinking or urinating (peeing) more than normal
• Agitation, restlessness, or hyperactivity
• Seizures, tremors, or muscle twitching
• Weakness, lethargy, or collapse
• Disorientation or confusion
• Breathing difficulties
• Heart problems: weak, fast or irregular heartbeat

Even mild symptoms can escalate quickly. Always treat possible poisoning as urgent and contact a vet without delay.

Dogs at a greater risk of intoxication

• Young dogs: playful and inquisitive, so more likely to explore and chew unfamiliar objects
• Older dogs: often have other illnesses, such as liver, kidney, or heart disease, making them more vulnerable to severe effects of intoxication
• Small breeds: even small amounts of toxins can be life-threatening

Diagnosis of intoxication in dogs

Diagnosis largely depends on knowing or suspecting what type of toxin is involved. Remember to take any packaging, plant material, or photographic evidence to your vet.

• History and symptoms: clues from what the dog ate or touched
• Blood and urine tests: to check for organ damage or toxin levels
• Laboratory tests: sometimes samples of vomit or urine are sent for specific toxin testing
• Monitoring: ongoing checks to review progress, guide treatment and document recovery

Veterinary treatment for intoxication in dogs

Treatment focuses on removing or neutralising the toxin and helping your dog’s body to recover from its effects.

Decontamination:

• For toxic substances on skin or coat: clipping fur, bathing with mild dog shampoo, and preventing licking (ideally using a buster/cone collar).
• Ingested toxins: emptying the stomach within 1-2 hours of exposure. Vets can give an injection to make your dog vomit. A stomach lavage (‘stomach pump’), if vomiting isn’t safe.
• Administering activated charcoal by mouth to block further absorption of any remaining toxin.

Safety note: Never attempt to induce vomiting at home. It risks life-threatening complications such as aspiration pneumonia, as well as further severe toxicity.

Supportive care:

• Hospitalisation and intravenous fluids: fluids are directly injected into a vein to support the circulation and vital organ function.
• Medications to control seizures or tremors.
• Blood or plasma transfusions: when the toxin causes clotting problems.
• Monitoring heart rate and rhythm: medication to restore normal heart function where indicated.

Home treatment for intoxication in dogs

Call a vet immediately!

Your dog has toxic substances on their skin:

• Wash off with water and mild soap/baby shampoo
• Use a buster collar to stop your dog from licking any toxin off their coat
• Keep your dog away from people and other pets

Your dog eats something they shouldn’t

• Remove your dog from further risk of exposure
• Do not try to make your dog vomit yourself
• Take note of what your dog ate and how much
• Take any packaging, samples or a photo of the suspected toxin with you to the vet

Tips to prevent intoxication or poisoning in dogs

• Keep toxic foods and household products in secure containers, out of reach of dogs
• Inform all family members and household staff about unsafe foods for dogs
• Always check food labels for common ingredients toxic to dogs, such as xylitol or raisins
• Store medications safely. Never share human medicine with pets; many are extremely harmful
• Be cautious with pest control products inside and outside the home
• Supervise your dog on walks: some mushrooms and discarded foodstuffs in parks or streets can be harmful
• Regularly check your garden or villa area for toxic plants

When to worry about intoxication or poisoning in dogs

Contact your nearest vet for emergency help if your dog develops any of these symptoms:

• Continuous vomiting
• Seizures or tremors lasting more than 5 minutes
• Collapse or fainting
• Difficulty breathing

Speak to a vet without delay if you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic and they show any of the following:

• Vomiting or diarrhoea
• Drooling
• Excessive thirst or urination
• Restlessness or agitation
• Weakness or lethargy
• Confusion or disorientation
• Pale gums
• Excessive panting

Worried your dog may have been exposed to something dangerous? Contact Modern Vet Hospital in Dubai right away. Their experienced veterinary team provides urgent care for intoxication cases, including diagnostics, decontamination, and ongoing monitoring to give your dog the best chance of recovery. Whether it’s an emergency or follow-up care, Modern Vet Hospital is here to provide expert, compassionate support for your pet’s health.