Essential Steps and Emergency Clinics in the UAE

Pet poisoning can happen in the blink of an eye. Whether your dog accidentally ingests chocolate or your cat nibbles on a toxic plant, it’s important to act fast and effectively. In the UAE, pet owners need to be aware of common household dangers, how to handle a poisoning emergency, and where to turn for professional help.

This guide will provide you with the crucial steps to take if your pet is poisoned, five important tips to deal with the initial stage of a poisoning emergency, and a list of five emergency veterinary clinics in the UAE that offer round-the-clock care.

Common Pet Poisons

Before diving into the emergency steps, it's important to be aware of some common household items that can be toxic to pets:

• Human Food: Chocolate, onions, grapes, raisins, alcohol, and caffeine are common foods that can be deadly to pets.
• Household Cleaners: Bleach, detergents, and other cleaning products can cause severe harm if ingested or inhaled.
• Medications: Human medications like ibuprofen, paracetamol, and antidepressants can be extremely dangerous to pets.
• Plants: Some common plants, such as lilies, aloe vera, and poinsettias, are toxic to pets.
• Rodenticides and Pesticides: These poisons are particularly dangerous as they are designed to be lethal.

5 Essential Tips to Deal with Pet Poisoning

If you suspect your pet has been poisoned, time is of the essence. Follow these five tips to help mitigate the damage while you seek professional help:

1. Stay Calm and Assess the Situation

It’s natural to panic when your pet is in danger, but staying calm is crucial to managing the situation effectively. Assess your pet’s condition—are they vomiting, drooling excessively, showing signs of lethargy, or having seizures? Try to identify what they ingested or were exposed to, as this information will be critical when you contact your vet.

2. Remove Your Pet from the Source of Poison

If possible, safely remove your pet from the toxic substance. If they’ve ingested something, do not attempt to induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian. For topical exposure, such as contact with a cleaning chemical, rinse your pet with lukewarm water to reduce further absorption of the toxin.

3. Collect Information About the Poison

Gather as much information as you can about the poison. If your pet has eaten something, save the packaging or label to show the vet. Knowing the type of toxin, the amount ingested, and the time of exposure will help veterinarians provide the appropriate treatment.

4. Call Your Veterinarian or Emergency Clinic

The next step is to immediately call a veterinary professional or emergency clinic. Provide them with all the relevant information, including the suspected poison, your pet’s weight, and symptoms. The vet will advise you on the next steps and whether immediate care is required.

5. Follow the Veterinarian’s Instructions

Based on the information you provide, your vet will give you specific instructions, such as whether to bring your pet in right away or how to provide first aid at home. In some cases, the vet may suggest giving your pet activated charcoal to help absorb toxins, but always follow their advice closely.

Emergency Veterinary Clinics in the UAE

In a pet poisoning emergency, knowing where to find immediate help can make all the difference. Here are five veterinary clinics in the UAE that offer emergency services 24/7:

1. The Veterinary Hospital – Dubai

• Location: Al Quoz, Dubai
• Services: Emergency care, surgery, diagnostics, and general veterinary services
• Contact: +971 4 338 7726

2. Blue Oasis Veterinary Clinic – Dubai

• Location: Motor City, Dubai
• Services: 24-hour emergency care, intensive care unit, and medical diagnostics
• Contact: +971 4 447 4040

3. German Veterinary Clinic – Abu Dhabi

• Location: Khalifa City A, Abu Dhabi
• Services: Emergency care, surgery, and critical care for pets
• Contact: +971 2 556 2024

4. The British Veterinary Centre – Abu Dhabi

• Location: Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi
• Services: 24/7 emergency care, surgical procedures, and preventive care
• Contact: +971 2 665 0085

5. Al Ain Veterinary Clinic – Al Ain

• Location: Al Jimi, Al Ain
• Services: Emergency services, surgery, and general veterinary care
• Contact: +971 3 762 1942

Common Signs of Pet Poisoning

Knowing how to identify the symptoms of poisoning is crucial for getting your pet the help they need. Look out for the following signs:

• Vomiting or Diarrhoea: One of the most common signs of ingestion of a toxic substance.
• Drooling or Foaming at the Mouth: This may indicate that your pet has ingested a harmful chemical.
• Lethargy or Weakness: If your normally energetic pet suddenly becomes weak or disoriented, this could be a red flag.

• Seizures or Tremors: These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
• Breathing Difficulty: Labored or rapid breathing may suggest respiratory distress caused by poisoning.
• Pale Gums: Pale or blue-tinged gums may indicate shock or difficulty breathing, both of which can occur in poisoning cases.

Preventing Pet Poisoning in Your Home

Prevention is the best strategy when it comes to pet poisoning. Here are some steps you can take to reduce the risk of poisoning in your home:

• Store Food and Medications Safely: Keep human food, medications, and supplements out of reach from your pets, preferably in locked cabinets.
• Use Pet-Safe Cleaning Products: Choose non-toxic, pet-friendly cleaning supplies. Keep pets away from freshly cleaned surfaces until they are completely dry.
• Identify Hazardous Plants: Ensure that any plants you have in your home or garden are non-toxic to pets.
• Dispose of Chemicals Safely: Keep rodenticides, pesticides, and other harmful chemicals in areas that your pet cannot access.
• Regular Checkups: Regular vet visits can help you stay on top of your pet’s health and catch any potential issues early on.

Conclusion

Handling a pet poisoning emergency requires quick thinking and immediate action. By staying calm, removing your pet from danger, and seeking professional help right away, you can greatly improve your pet’s chances of recovery. It’s also important to be aware of emergency clinics in the UAE that can provide 24-hour care. Lastly, prevention is key—pet-proofing your home and being aware of common toxic substances will help you avoid these emergencies in the first place.