Garbage and Contaminated-Water Intoxication

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                      General Information



Dogs and cats are scavengers by nature and if allowed, may eat

decaying or rotten materials or garbage, or drink contaminated

water.  Aside from bacteria and toxins, such materials might

also contain plastic, glass or other foreign matter that might

obstruct or injure the digestive tract.  Food materials can

develop dangerous levels of bacteria or toxins if kept at

temperatures of 45-140 F for over 3 hours.



Water puddles and cast-off containers might contain harmful

bacteria or any of a variety of toxic materials, ranging from

antifreeze to pesticides.



Common signs of garbage intoxication include vomiting, abdominal

pain and diarrhea.  With other materials, signs depend on the

nature of the ingested toxin.  While most intoxications can be

successfully treated, death may occur in severe cases.



                 Important Points in Treatment



1.  Treatment depends on the type and dose of toxin, time since

    it was eaten, and the degree of illness.  Many animals

    require hospitalization and some require intensive treatment.

    Despite the best of care, some individuals may not survive.



2.  Give all medication as directed.  Call the doctor if you

    cannot give the medication.



3.  Diet:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Feed the normal diet.



    ____A special diet is required.  Feed as follows:





4.  Water:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Provide fresh water at all times.



    ____Restrict water intake as follows:





5.  Activity:  Follow the instructions checked.



    ____Allow normal activity.



    ____Restrict activity as follows:





        Notify the Doctor if Any of the Following Occur:



    * Your pet's signs recur after an apparent recovery.



    * Your pet develops new signs.



    * Your pet develops muscle tremors, shaking or seizures.