In order to keep your canine pal safe at home it is important to become familiar with the common household substances and items that can be dangerous - even fatal - if ingested. This list is not all-inclusive but it does contain information on some of the dangers typically found in homes.

Household Cleaning Products

Although many household cleaning products can be used safely around dogs, it is important that they are properly stored and used responsibly. Product labels normally include appropriate warnings when their use presents a potential hazard. Review product labels for statements such as "keep children and pets away from area until completely dry". While cleaners containing chlorine bleach can safely disinfect household surfaces when used safely, they can also cause severe chemical burns when skin contact is made and are potentially lethal if swallowed. Diarrhea, excessive drooling, vomiting and stomach pain are typical symptoms of ingestion of these products.

To avoid accidents with cleaning products be sure to keep them in their original packaging if they can be tightly sealed. Packages that cannot be re-sealed should be stored in a properly labeled sealed container.

Herbicides, Insecticides and Other Pest Control Products

Flea and tick products that are intended only for external use should be kept safely out of your dog's reach to avoid over exposure or ingestion. Read label directions carefully before using these products as these are poisonous chemicals that can harm your pet if improperly applied.

Mouse and rat poisons when ingested can result in a life-threatening situation. It is critical to keep these products well sealed and in a location that is completely inaccessible to your dog.

Gardening chemicals (herbicides, fertilizers, insecticides, etc.) must also be used safely in order to ensure your dog's health. When applied to lawns, keep all pets away from the treated area until it is considered safe according to the manufacturers directions. Lawn and garden chemicals that stick to your dog's paws may cause severe skin reactions. If the dog later licks his paws the chemicals may be ingested.

Food Hazards

The following foods can be hazardous for dogs. No matter how much he begs for a "treat", these foods should never be given to your dog:

Chocolate, Yeast Dough, Chewing Gum, Persimmons, Grapes/Raisins, Alcohol, Onions, Coffee & Grounds, Tea, Potato Peelings, Nutmeg, Mushrooms, Garlic, Avocados, Nuts, Salt, Raw Eggs or Fish, Most Bones, Baking Soda/Powder, and Sugar Free Foods Containing Xylitol.

Keep household garbage in securely closed trash cans. For some reason dogs seem to find garbage in plastic trash bags absolutely irresistible and they can easily rip them open in search of "goodies". However, rotting food can be harboring nasty bacteria and molds that could cause your dog to suffer from food poisoning.

Bathroom Hazards

Drugs intended to treat human medical conditions can make pets very sick. Never give your dog any medications unless your veterinarian specifically instruct you to do so. Keep all meds in tightly closed, secured containers well above the counter and away from dogs. Particularly dangerous common over-the-counter medications include aspirin, ibuprofen, acetaminophen, naproxen, antihistamines, cold medicines, vitamins, diet pills, and topical creams/ointments.

Other health and beauty products such as skin lotions, toothpaste, nail care products and even some soaps can cause vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain so keep them secured and out of reach. Also remember to keep toilet lids closed. Dogs seem to love drinking from toilet bowls but if they do so it can be risky due to chemicals in toilet bowl cleaning products.

Toxic Plants

A wide variety of plants found in the yard and inside the home can make your dog sick. Some of the more common plants in this category include:

Rhododendron, English Ivy, Sago Palm, Cyclamen, Yew, Amaryllis, Autumn Crocus, Pothos, Chrysanthemum, Schefflera, Lilies, Tulip and Narcissus Bulbs, Oleander, Azalea, Hydrangea and Hibiscus

The ASPCA provides a very useful data base of plants, both toxic and non-toxic, on their website. As it is searchable, it is easy to use and will help to identify plants in your home than can be dangerous. The data base can be found at http://www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/

Miscellaneous Hazards

• Ethylene glycol antifreeze and coolants can be fatal, even is very small quantities. Although less toxic, propylene glycol antifreeze can still be dangerous.
• Paints and Solvents
• Small objects that fall on the floor can be easily swallowed by a curious dog. Such items as coins, small toys, jewelry, screws, nails, buttons, batteries, etc. may result in internal injuries and may require surgery to remove them.
• Small objects that fall on the floor can be easily swallowed by a curious dog. Such items as coins, small toys, jewelry, screws, nails, buttons, batteries, etc. may result in internal injuries and may require surgery to remove them.
• Electrical cords should be covered and blocked to prevent access. Chewing on a live wire could prove deadly.
• Electrical cords should be covered and blocked to prevent access. Chewing on a live wire could prove deadly.
• Strings, ribbons, and similar items can damage your dog's intestines and could be fatal if not surgically removed.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR PET IS POISONED

Do Not Delay! Speedy action is critical for the treatment of accidental poisoning. Call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 1-888-425-4435. Be ready to state your dog's age, weight, breed, and any symptoms observed. Have the product container or a sample of the plant with you so that the poison can be properly identified and an appropriate treatment can be prescribed.