Welcome to The Puppy Toolbox!

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We all want to believe our puppies are perfect little angels, but sometimes, they turn into furry garbage disposals. Whether it’s chocolate, medication, or something even more surprising, emergencies can strike in an instant. Here’s what you need to know to keep your pup safe in these situations.

1. React Quickly But Calmly

If your puppy ingests something dangerous:

• Assess the situation: What did they eat? How much? When?
• Contact a professional: Call your vet or a poison control hotline immediately for advice tailored to your puppy’s specific situation.

2. Poison Control Options for Pets

Did you know pet poison control hotlines charge a fee because they don’t receive government funding? The ASPCA’s hotline, for example, costs $95, but the advice could save your pet’s life.

Some affordable alternatives include:

• Chewy’s Vet Chat (free for customers)
• Microchip Providers: Plans like AKC Reunite or HomeAgain often include access to poison hotlines for a low annual fee.
• Pet Insurance: Check your policy for 24/7 hotlines or apps like Vethelpline.

3. DIY Emergency Steps

If professional help isn’t immediately available, some first-aid steps could buy you precious time:

• Induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide: Only do this if directed by a vet, as it’s not safe in every situation.
• Activated charcoal: Can sometimes help absorb toxins (consult your vet first).

4. Prepare for Future Emergencies

Here’s a quick checklist to puppy-proof your home and plan ahead:

• Secure dangerous items: Medications, foods like chocolate or grapes, and cleaning supplies.
• Keep emergency contacts handy: Your vet, ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435), and a local emergency clinic.
• Stock an emergency kit: Include hydrogen peroxide, activated charcoal, and a syringe for administering liquids. You can also buy one from Amazon.

You’ve Got This

Pet emergencies are stressful, but being prepared can make all the difference. Save this email, stock up on supplies, and make sure you’ve got those hotlines saved in your phone.

Got questions or tips to share? Hit reply—I’d love to hear your puppy stories!

🐾 Stay safe and give your pup an extra cuddle for me,

PJ, The Puppy Toolbox Team

P.S. Want more puppy health tips? Check out our blog posts.