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PET HEALTH ALERT: HOLD THE GUACAMOLE, POR FAVOR

Thinking of giving Polly a little something extra with her cracker?
While there are a few foods that both humans and pets can enjoy,
there are others that, while perfectly palatable for people, can be
dangerous to our animal companions. The fruit of the avocado, for
example, poses a threat to a number of species. "Avocados contain a
toxic component called persin," explains Jill A. Richardson, DVM, of
the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), "which has been shown
to produce cardiac tissue damage, respiratory distress and mammary
gland damage in a variety of animals--including horses, goats, sheep,
dogs, cattle, rabbits, fish and birds."

Consider the case of the cockatiel who had been given some guacamole
by his owner. Within four hours of ingestion, the bird started
behaving strangely--puffing his feathers and acting uncomfortable--
and got progressively worse. The bird's owner brought him to an
emergency clinic, and the veterinarian there contacted the APCC. Says
Richardson, "We gave him recommendations on treating the animal--an
oxygen cage and diuretics to remove the fluid on the bird's lungs."
The animal was hospitalized for several days, but recovered. "And
needless to say," adds Richardson, "guacamole is NOT on the menu any
longer!"

If you suspect that your animal companion has eaten avocado--or any
other potentially dangerous substance--call your veterinarian or the
APCC's emergency hotline at (888) 4-ANI-HELP for round-the-clock
telephone assistance. For more information on poison prevention,
visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center.

Posted on SHARE Yahoo group April 1, 2002