Homemade play dough is a favourite activity for many families, but it can pose a significant poisoning risk if curious pets decide to have a taste. Most homemade play dough recipes contain flour, salt, water, vegetable oil, cream of tartar (potassium bitartrate), food ...
Reed diffusers are a popular way to keep homes smelling fresh, but they can pose a risk to curious pets. Many people are aware that the fragrance or essential oils in these products can cause problems if licked or ingested. However, the liquid inside reed diffusers...
DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) is a widely used insect repellent that helps protect against mosquitoes, ticks, fleas, and flies. In Australia, products contain anywhere from lower concentrations (around 10%) to highly concentrated formulations (up to 80%) and are...
With mushroom season approaching, the Animal Poisons Helpline is noting an increase in cases and calls following mushroom ingestions in companion animals, most commonly dogs. The mushroom in the attached image is Galerina marginata, commonly known...
Cigarettes are commonly and accidentally ingested by pets and can lead to unexpected poisoning in many domestic animals, including dogs, cats, and birds. While used cigarettes may seem harmless, they can still be toxic if chewed or eaten. All parts of a cigarette...
Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is a large, toxic perennial plant native to North America that has been introduced to Australia. It is easily recognised by its bright green, elliptical leaves and green to white flowers, which mature into red-purple berries borne in elongated...
Privet berries, produced by plants in the Ligustrum genus, start off green and ripen to a dull purple colour as they mature. Typically fruiting during autumn and winter, privets are common garden and landscaping plants, grown for their glossy green leaves and attractive...
Mothballs are sometimes used in wardrobes, storage areas and suitcases to deter moths and other insects. Whilst they may be effective for protecting clothing and other fabrics, mothballs pose a significant poisoning risk to pets. The Animal Poisons Helpline receives calls...
A big thank you to Simply Seaweed for becoming an Animal Poisons Helpline Business Supporter for 2025–2026! 🌿 Their generous support helps us continue providing expert toxicology advice to pet owners across Australia, 24/7. Simply Seaweed is a passionate, pet-focused...
Engine oil, also known as motor oil, is a lubricant used in engines to reduce friction and wear. It is a common household automotive product that poses a risk to curious pets, with the Helpline frequently receiving calls about pets that have licked or walked through oil spills, particularly...
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis) is a popular ornamental plant prized for its perfumed, bell-shaped white flowers. Whilst beautiful, this plant poses a serious poisoning risk to pets. All parts of the Lily of the Valley plant are toxic, including the flowers, leaves and stems. ...
Catharanthus roseus, commonly known as the Madagascar periwinkle, is a perennial flowering plant in the Apocynaceae family. It is widely used as an ornamental plant due to its attractive, star-shaped flowers, which come in a variety of colours. The most common variety is bright...
Hydrofluoric acid is a highly corrosive and toxic chemical used in a range of industrial products including rust removers, aluminium cleaners and heavy-duty household or automotive cleaners. Whilst not commonly found in everyday homes, exposure can occur through accidental ...
Congratulations to the three winners of our final KONG prize pack draw, each winning a KONG toy prize pack valued at $250 AUD!. A massive thanks to all of those pet owners that have donated to the Animal Poisons Helpline over the past three months. Your donations ensure that we can...
From chocolate eggs to hot cross buns, Easter is a time of sweet treats for many. However, every Easter holiday period the Animal Poisons Helpline receives a significant increase in calls regarding pets eating chocolate and sultanas. Chocolate contains methylxanthines which are dangerous to pets. ...
As we are once again entering 'mushroom season', the Animal Poisons Helpline is beginning to receive a significant increase in the number of calls about pets eating wild mushrooms. Due to their indiscriminate eating habits, dogs are most frequently involved in these cases....
Antihistamines are common medicines used to treat allergy symptoms such as runny nose, sneezing and itchy eyes. There are two main classes of antihistamines, the first generation antihistamines (also known as sedating antihistamines) and the second generation antihistamines....
The redback spider (Latrodectus hasselti), also known as the Australian black widow, is a highly venomous spider species native to Australia. Due to its wide distribution, the redback spider is arguably the most clinically significant spider in Australia. Adult females are the most commonly seen,...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is a registered animal welfare charity that assists over 12,000 animals every year. As demand for the service continues to grow, we rely heavily on the generosity of pet owners like you to help us continue assisting poisoned animals. To help spread awareness of...
We have just been notified today that there is a large number of washed up bluebottles at Horseshoe Bay Beach (and possibly the surrounding beaches) in Bermagui, NSW. Dogs that ingest bluebottles may be stung in the mouth and throat. These stings ...
Whilst Cyclone Alfred may have been downgraded to a tropical low, it is important to remember that severe storms can be extremely dangerous and cause destruction to the environment and nearby infrastructure. During these stressful ...
We are very pleased to welcome SERB Pharmaceuticals back on board for another year as an Animal Poisons Helpline supporter....
Euphorbia trigona, more commonly known as the African Milk Tree or Cathedral Cactus, is a striking succulent belonging to the Euphorbia or Spurge family. Known for its distinctive candelabra-like form, it features upright, green stems with ridges...
Over summer, the Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently consulted about companion animals that have been exposed to ant powders and dusts. These products are commonly used around the house to kill ants and other household pests...
Essential oils are becoming increasingly popular for their use in aromatherapy products. They may also be found within cleaning products, herbal remedies, perfumes, personal care products and air fresheners. As essential oils are more ...
Are you heading down to one of the many fantastic dog beaches along our beautiful coastline this summer? Dog owners should be aware of the potential hazards when cooling down with their furry companions during these hot summer months....
The Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently called about dogs that have ingested beached bluebottles. Otherwise known as man-of-war or blue bottle jellyfish, Physalia physalis is not actually a jellyfish but is a colony of many smaller living organisms (known as zooids) ...
A massive thanks to all of those pet owners that have donated to the Animal Poisons Helpline over the past three months. Your donations ensure that we can continue to assist poisoned animals....
The Animal Poisons Helpline expects a seasonal increase in the number of calls regarding pufferfish exposure over summer. Pufferfish, also known as toadfish, blowfish or simply blowies, can be very attractive to pets. ...
Christmas can be a joyous time of the year filled with fun and family gatherings, however, festive presents, decorations, and food can often prove to be dangerous for our inquisitive companions. It is therefore no surprise that the Christmas period is one of the...
Poinsettia, also known as the Christmas flower, is a flowering plant species belonging to the spurge family. It is particularly well known for its striking red and green leaves and is widely used in Christmas...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently contacted about companion animals, most commonly dogs, that have chewed into and punctured their owners “asthma puffers”. Asthma puffers or inhalers can be classed into two different groups known as...
In Australia and New Zealand, most snail baits contain either metaldehyde, methiocarb or iron. Dogs may find these products appetising and will ingest large amounts (even an entire box) if given ...
Melia azedarach, often called white cedar, chinaberry or cape lilac is a common street and garden tree that is native to Australia. White cedar trees are often planted in parks, public gardens and...
Over the warmer months, the Animal Poisons Helpline receives a large number of calls about pets that have ingested organic fertiliser. Organic fertiliser is typically made of different types of manures,...
The main ingredient in homemade playdough is salt (sodium chloride). Sodium is an essential electrolyte in the body, but when its levels become too high it can lead to severe neurological effects...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is occasionally contacted about companion animals that have been exposed to pre-emergent herbicides. Whilst there are several pre-emergents...
Hydrangeas, commonly known as hortensia, is a genus of more than 70 species of flowering plants that can be recognised by their beautifully large flower clusters that appear in a bulb or cone shape....
Please be aware that snake encounters are once again becoming more frequent as the weather begins to warm up in many parts of Australia. All bites (including suspected bites) should be regarded as life-threatening....
Did you know that vitamin D3 (also known as colecalciferol) can be dangerous to pets if consumed in excessive quantities? Vitamin D3 is available as a dietary supplement but is also found in very high doses in some rodenticides. The Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently contacted about pets ...
Organophosphates are chemical compounds known widely for their use as insecticides. Whilst organophosphate poisoning is infrequent in Australia and New Zealand these days, animals exposed to these compounds can potentially develop severe or life-threatening poisoning....
The Animal Poisons Helpline is occasionally contacted about pets that have mouthed or ingested caterpillars. Most problems that arise from these exposures are due to the tiny hairs (setae), spines, or quills may be covering a caterpillar's body....
We are very pleased to advise that Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance have renewed their Platinum Sponsorship of the Animal Poisons Helpline for another year! From our beginnings, Bow Wow Meow have been a steadfast supporter of the Animal Poisons Helpline and the life-saving service that is provides to pet owners....
Over winter, the Animal Poisons Helpline has been contacted frequently about pets ingesting nasal decongestants. Decongestants are used to provide short-term relief from blocked or stuffy noses and are available in many forms including tablets, oral liquids and nasal sprays....
The Animal Poisons Helpline is occasionally contacted about dogs that have ingested ear tags. An ear tag is a small object made of plastic or metal that pierces the ear of cattle or other livestock. Some ear tags, known as insecticide tags or “fly tags”, contain insecticides such as synthetic pyrethroids, organophosphates or macrocyclic lactones. ...
With the cooler weather well upon us, the Animal Poisons Helpline has noted a significant increase in calls regarding dogs ingesting single use hand warmers. Single use hand warmers typically contain iron powder and smaller quantities of salt, water, an absorbent material (e.g. vermiculite) and activated carbon. When the pouch is removed from its outer packaging, ...
Victoria has certainly over-represented in this draw! A huge thanks to all of those pet owners that have donated to the Animal Poisons Helpline over the past three months. Your donations ensure that we can continue to assist poisoned animals....
Paracetamol is commonly used in humans to treat pain and fever and is available in a variety of preparations including tablets, oral liquids and suppositories. It may also be found combined with other medications. As paracetamol is found in most households, it is unfortunately one ...
Ionophores are a class of antibiotic-like compounds that are used in the beef and poultry industries to control coccidiosis (an intestinal parasitic disease), decrease the incidence of bloat and improve weight gain in cattle. Ionophores currently used in Australia and New Zealand...
Our homes contain a number of everyday items that can be dangerous to companion animals. Every year, the Animal Poisons Helpline provides free poisoning advice to over 10,000 pet owners. Poisoning can occur following exposure to a variety of products such as human food,...
With the start of cold and flu season, the Animal Poisons Helpline has seen an increase in the number of calls about pets ingesting cold and flu medications. Companion animals can be very sensitive to decongestant preparations which are medications that help relieve blocked noses....
Sodium fluoroacetate, commonly known as 1080, is a highly toxic pesticide that was introduced to Australia in 1952 to control rabbits. 1080 is currently used to control a range of animal species such as foxes, wild dogs and feral pigs across Australia and New Zealand....
We are once again in ‘mushroom season’, and the Animal Poisons Helpline is seeing a sharp seasonal increase in the number of calls regarding pets eating wild mushrooms. Wild mushroom ingestion can result in a spectrum of clinical signs...
Anthuriums, also known as flamingo flowers, painter's palette or laceleaf are the largest genus of flowering plants in the Arum or Araceae family. The name Anthurium comes from the Greek word 'anthos' which means ‘tail flower’...
Anticoagulant rodenticides (commonly known as rat and mouse baits) are the most common poison that the Animal Poisons Helpline is phoned about. They are available in Australia and New Zealand as wax blocks and pellets....
Agave are a genus of succulents that contain more than 200 species in the flowering plant family Agavaceae. Characterised by their large, basal rosettes of thick fleshy leaves typically with a sharp terminal point...
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in humans and companion animals for the management of inflammation, pain and fever. Many NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, naproxen and mefenamic acid...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is a registered animal welfare charity that assists over 12,000 animals every year. As demand for the service continues to grow, we rely heavily on the generosity of pet owners like you to help us continue...
The Animal Poisons Helpline has recently handled several cases whereby pet dogs have accidentally been poisoned by para-aminopropiophenone (PAPP) baits. PAPP baits have been used in Australia since 2016 to control foxes, wild dogs...
Macadamia nuts, also known as Queensland or Australian nuts, are a common ingredient in sweet and savoury recipes, raw food treats and home-baked goods. Macadamia nuts are rich in nutrients and beneficial plant compounds...
Xylitol is a naturally occurring sugar alcohol commonly used as an alternative sweetener. The name xylitol comes from the word “xylose” or “wood sugar”, as it was initially produced from birch trees in the early 1900’s. ...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently contacted about companion animals that have ingested products containing salicylates. Such compounds are frequently incorporated into medicines and include aspirin, methyl salicylate...
Paraquat is a highly toxic weed killer that is used extensively to control a wide range of grasses and broadleaf weeds. The Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Association (APVMA) has restricted the supply of paraquat...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently contacted about animals that have ingested or otherwise come into contact with disinfectants. Disinfectants are chemicals that are used to kill microorganisms on surfaces...
Echium plantagineum, commonly known as Paterson’s curse, is an invasive winter annual herb. It can be identified by its deep purple spring blossoms, which can cover broad fields of agricultural land. Paterson’s curse was introduced to Australia...
During this time of year, wild mushroom ingestion is one of the most common reasons that pet owners phone the Animal Poisons Helpline. Australia and New Zealand are home to over 10,000 mushroom species...
Reusable hot and cold packs are versatile gel or liquid filled products that are commonly found in many households. The Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently contacted about companion animals, particularly dogs...
The Animal Poisons Helpline has recently become aware of the rising profile of nicotine pouches in Australia and New Zealand. Nicotine pouches are small sachets or bags containing synthetic nicotine and are being promoted...
Euphorbia tirucalli, more commonly known as the “pencil cactus”, “fire stick” or “milk bush”, is a succulent large shrub or tree within the spurge family. Although normally green in colour, it is known for its bright red, orange and yellow stem...
Aplysia spp., more commonly known as sea hares or sea slugs are marine gastropods that pose a significant coastal hazard for pets in Australia. Sea hares have a soft rounded body with long upper head tentacles which are thought to resemble...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is a registered animal welfare charity that provides free poisons advice to over 10,000 Australian and New Zealand pet owners each year....
Did you know that household paint used to contain significant quantities of the toxic heavy metal lead? Lead, in various salt forms, was incorporated into paint for pigment and durability purposes. In Australia, progressive changes to legislation...
During summer months, the Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently contacted about dogs that have chewed on or ingested beached pufferfish. Pufferfish (also known as toadfish, blowfish or simply blowies) can be found in waters...
Throughout the summer months, the Animal Poisons Helpline is frequently phoned regarding dogs that have mouthed or ingested washed up bluebottles. Occasionally mass beachings of these creatures are reported to the Helpline...
Crassula ovata, more commonly known as the jade plant, lucky plant or money plant, is a popular succulent recognised by its unique coin-shaped leaves, clusters of small pink or white flowers and its association with bringing good fortune ...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is occasionally phoned about blue button (Porpita porpita) exposures. Blue buttons are small marine organisms with impressive bright blue tentacles and a symmetrical coin-like centre....
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used medications in both humans and animals for the management of inflammation, pain and fever....
Family pets can be as curious as children when it comes to holiday decorations, foods, and visitors and it is no surprise that the Christmas period is one of the busiest times of the year for the Helpline. Please keep your pets safe over the holidays...
Epipremnum aureum, more commonly known as Devil’s Ivy or Golden Pothos, is an evergreen vine that belongs to the Araceae family. Identified by its glossy, heart-shaped leaves variegated with white and yellow streaks...
It was great to meet The Hon Jackie Jarvis MLC, WA’s Minister for Agriculture & Food at the newly established Perth Vet Emergency in Cannington last week....
With warmer weather comes an increase in snake activity. This prompts an increase in calls to the Animal Poisons Helpline regarding snake interactions where a bite is suspected or known to have occurred....
Human use of prescribed stimulant medication has significantly increased over the years. As these medications are now frequently found in the home, calls to the Animal Poisons Helpline regarding pets that ingest such medication ...
The Animal Poisons Helpline has recently posted about the dangers of pets ingesting 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) cream. 5-FU is found in several prescription creams that are used for solar keratosis (sun damaged skin) and other precancerous...
Adenium obesum, commonly known as Desert Rose, is a succulent plant species that typically bloom in spring and summer months. It is a popular ornamental plant found in many Australian and New Zealand households...
Dracaena fragrans, commonly known as the 'corn plant' or 'happy plant’ is a popular and easy-to-grow plant that is found in many homes and gardens throughout Australia and New Zealand. Whilst these plants are appreciated for their bright green leaves...
Today marks World Animal Day, a day dedicated to improving animal welfare across the globe. On this day 4 years ago, the launch of the Animal Poisons Helpline was also announced. Since then, the Helpline has assisted over 40,000 animals...
Spring flowering bulbs are a seasonal highlight that capture the excitement, colour and beauty of spring. These plants come in all shapes and sizes and are commonly planted in gardens throughout Australia and New Zealand....
We are thrilled to have Bow Wow Meow Pet Insurance’s ongoing support as an Animal Poisons Helpline Platinum Sponsor! Bow Wow Meow for Pets are a steadfast supporter of the Helpline....
The Animal Poisons Helpline is often contacted about pets that chew on or ingest leaves from plants in the Yucca genus. These perennial shrubs have sword shaped leaves and white flowers that are typically held on strong stems above the foliage...
With the cooler weather upon us, the Animal Poisons Helpline has noticed a seasonal change in the types of toxins that animals are being exposed to. A reminder to our pet owning followers to be mindful of winter hazards ...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is seeking donations for its winter appeal. The service helps over 10,000 poisoned animals per year and now requires your support to meet the demands of a hazardous winter. ...
We are pleased to welcome SERB Pharmaceuticals on board as an Animal Poisons Helpline supporter. Animal welfare is very important to the SERB Pharmaceuticals team, who are a dedicated ally to healthcare providers...
Pyrethroids are commonly found in domestic insecticide products such as insect and spider sprays, ant sands and mosquito coils. These insecticides may also be found in some flea and tick spot-on products for dogs. ...
With Mother’s Day rapidly approaching, the Animal Poisons Helpline is anticipating an increase in calls regarding pets that have accessed bouquets and ingested flowering plants. Some flowering plants are considered highly toxic...
Over the past two months, the Animal Poisons Helpline has received over 50 calls regarding pets eating wild mushrooms. Most of these calls have come pet owners in Victoria and New South Wales. Whilst the ingestion of most mushroom species...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is often phoned regarding pets that have ingested topical pharmaceutical products. These may include creams, ointments, lotions, and foams. Whilst most of these exposures do not lead to significant harm...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is noticing an increase in the number of calls regarding pets eating wild mushrooms. This comes as no surprise given the seasonal growth characteristics of fungi and the recent rains throughout much of Australia....
After another busy year of providing a free poisons advice service to pet owners in Australia and New Zealand, we wanted to share the most common dog breeds that the Animal Poisons Helpline was contacted about in 2022....
Syagrus romanzoffiana (more commonly known as the queen palm or cocos palm) is an introduced palm that commonly grows in Queensland and New South Wales. The queen palm can grow up to 15 metres high and produces clusters of yellow or orange fruit. ...
Snakes are currently active across the country, and we would like to remind our followers that all snake bites in Australia should be regarded as life-threatening. If your pet is bitten, it is vital that you keep them calm and as still as possible. ...
With your support, the Animal Poisons Helpline xylitol database now contains over 750 products. This information helps our team rapidly determine the presence and quantity of xylitol in a large range of pharmaceuticals...
It can be a stressful experience to find out that your pet has ingested something they should not have. The Animal Poisons Helpline is here to support you and your pet through such circumstances if they ever occur. Our team will assess ...
Have you seen this plant? Ricinus communis (more commonly known as the castor bean or castor oil plant) is a highly poisonous plant that grows throughout Australia and New Zealand. Often found in vacant plots of land and unkept gardens...
As we approach the holiday period, calls to the Animal Poisons Helpline are on the rise. Many of us will be are aware of the additional poison risks Christmas brings for our pets, such as chocolate, alcohol, macadamia nuts or even button batteries. This holiday......
Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ) are currently coordinating a recall of various baby spinach products in Australia that are contaminated with unsafe plant material. These products are considered unsafe for human consumption...
We have just been notified today that there is a large number of washed up bluebottles at Redhead Beach in Newcastle. Dogs that ingest bluebottles may be stung in the mouth and throat. These stings are immediately painful and ...
Please join us in congratulating our Santa Paws Christmas Giveaway winners! Our major winner: DEBBIE PLUS DACHSHUND JAGGER AND RETRIEVER SASHA (VIC)! Plus our two runners-up: ROXANNE AND CATS ...
With summer on our doorstep, we want to remind pet owners that some toxins are seasonal. For all animal poisoning queries, you can call the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (AU)or 0800 869 738 (NZ). The service is free for all pet owners...
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea) is sometimes grown in temperate cottage gardens of Australia and New Zealand for its attractive and colourful bell-shaped flowers. All parts of this plant contain toxic compounds known as cardiac glycosides. ...
If you enjoy home brewing, please be aware that hops can be incredibly toxic to dogs. Hops are used as flavouring and stability agents in beer, and come in the form of dried flowers, pellets, and plugs. Unfortunately, the sweet mixture...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is often phoned about pets ingesting nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Pets can easily be exposed to toxic doses of these medications by either directly chewing into packets...
Our Santa Paws Christmas Giveaway is now closed. Thank you to everyone who entered, donated and supported the helpline. We’ll be announcing our lucky winner and runners-up very soon - so keep an eye on your inbox......
Enter to win a Santa Paws Prize Pack valued at up to $1,848.95 AUD from The Australian Animal Poisons Helpline. Head to animalpoisons.com.au/christmas-giveaway and enter your details for your chance to WIN!...
Dracaena trifasciata, more commonly known as the snake plant or mother-in-law’s tongue, is a common indoor house plant. Many of our followers will instantly recognise this plant from the characteristic flat elongated vertical leaves. ...
Have you seen this caterpillar? The white cedar moth (Leptocneria reducta) is found in all Australian states and territories except Tasmania. These caterpillars can be present in large numbers near white cedar trees, typically migrating...
With recent increases in building works and DIY home renovations, the Animal Poisons Helpline is often contacted about pets that chew on or ingest different building related products. One such product is timber adhesives ...
Did you know that Duranta erecta (commonly known as Geisha girl, Sheena’s gold, golden dewdrop, or simply Duranta) can be toxic to your pets? The leaves and berries are known to be toxic, however the toxin responsible...
As we head into warmer weather and drift closer to summer, our team have already noticed an increase in calls regarding beach related poisonings. From the weird and wonderful creatures which wash up on our pristine shores...
We have recently posted about the dangers of xylitol to dogs and the types of products that it may be found in. With your support, the Animal Poisons Helpline xylitol database now contains over 400 products...
The Animal Poisons Helpline is often phoned regarding pets (typically dogs) that have ingested oral contraceptives or birth control pills. These tablets may contain a combination of an oestrogen and progestogen...