EMERGENCY - Slug bait ingestion
Slug Bait toxicity is very common in the Pacific Northwest. Despite what the labels tell you, it is very poisonous to domestic animals. The active ingredient that casuses problems is Metaldehyde. Symptoms include muscle tremors and fasiculations, salivation, diarrhea and seizures. Immediate treatment is warranted. If the pet is still conscious and not seizuring, vomiting can be induced followed by activated charcoal orally to help absorb the toxins remaining in the digestive tract. If the muscle tremors are severe, or the pet is seizuring, an intravenous catheter is place and the pet is given muscle relaxants and sedatives to effect to help control the symptoms. Hospitalization for the poisoning can take hours or days before the pet is recoverd enough to return home. If your pet has ingested slug bait and is not showing symptoms, you can induce vomiting with syrup of Ipecac or hydrogen peroxide (1 to 5 ml per pound orally from a freshly opened bottle), and call your vet.
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