There are a wide range of sources of lead. Before the 1960s paint used in homes, on furniture and on toys contained high levels of lead, hence old paint can be a problem, particularly if it is deteriorating or is being stripped off either using sanders or with heat.  Other [...]

Vets in and around London should be aware of the dangers posed by the hairs of the oak processionary moth caterpillar. Ingestion may cause signs such as hypersalivation, oedema and blistering. There is also a risk of systemic toxicity, such as hyperthermia, respiratory distress and cyanosis. There may be necrosis of [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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% [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]

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 [...]