What should you do if a dog ate a poisoned mouse? - briefly
Call your veterinarian or an animal poison‑control hotline immediately and follow their instructions. Do not induce vomiting or administer any medication without professional guidance.
What should you do if a dog ate a poisoned mouse? - in detail
If a canine consumes a rodent that has been treated with poison, immediate action is essential to reduce the risk of severe toxicity.
First, assess the situation. Determine the type of poison, if known from the product label or the person who set the bait. Common rodenticides include anticoagulants, bromethalin, and zinc phosphide, each requiring a different treatment approach.
Next, contact a veterinary professional without delay. Provide details about the dog's size, age, breed, the estimated amount ingested, and the specific toxin involved. If a poison control center is available, call it as well; they can offer guidance on initial measures and indicate whether induced vomiting is advisable.
While awaiting instructions, do not attempt to induce vomiting unless explicitly directed by a veterinarian. Some toxins, such as bromethalin, can cause additional damage if vomited. If the veterinarian confirms that emesis is safe, use a commercially available emetic (e.g., hydrogen peroxide at 3 % concentration, 1 ml per kilogram of body weight, administered orally) and follow the recommended dosage precisely.
After any approved emesis, monitor the dog closely for signs of poisoning, which may include:
- Lethargy or weakness
- Bleeding from gums, nose, or stool (anticoagulant exposure)
- Tremors, seizures, or difficulty walking (neurotoxic agents)
- Vomiting, diarrhea, or abdominal pain
If symptoms appear, transport the animal to an emergency veterinary clinic immediately. Treatment may involve:
- Intravenous fluid therapy to support circulation and kidney function.
- Administration of specific antidotes:
- Vitamin K1 for anticoagulant poisoning, given orally or by injection for several weeks.
- Activated charcoal to bind residual toxin in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Lipid emulsion therapy for certain lipophilic poisons.
- Blood transfusions or plasma therapy if significant bleeding occurs.
- Anticonvulsants or supportive medications for neurological involvement.
Throughout the veterinary encounter, provide the original poison packaging or a detailed description of the bait. This information enables the clinician to select the correct antidote and dosage.
After discharge, follow the prescribed medication schedule rigorously, and schedule follow‑up examinations to confirm recovery. Prevent future incidents by securing all rodent control products out of reach, using pet‑safe alternatives, and supervising outdoor activities where wildlife may be present.