My Dog Ate Epsom Salt: (WHAT To Do Right Now)

So, your fur baby just had a snack of Epsom salt, huh? Don’t worry, I’ve actually been there myself.

First off, don’t panic. But do act quickly. Here’s what you need to know and do if you find yourself in this sticky situation.

Why Is Epsom Salt Dangerous for Dogs?

Epsom salt is not your regular table salt.

It’s actually magnesium sulfate. While it’s great for human aches and pains, it’s not so great for our four-legged friends.

Consuming Epsom salt can lead to symptoms like diarrhea, lethargy, and even more serious conditions like kidney failure in extreme cases.

Vets at the Pet Poison Helpline warn that Epsom salt can be really harmful if ingested by dogs. It can mess with their electrolyte balance and lead to serious issues.

So, if you think your dog has eaten even a small amount, it’s time to act.

Signs Your Dog Ate Epsom Salt

The signs can be pretty clear if you know what you’re looking for. Look for these symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Lack of energy
• Loss of appetite

If you see any of these signs, it’s a pretty good clue that your pup might have gotten into the Epsom salt.

What To Do Right Away

First thing’s first, call your vet!

If your vet isn’t available, try an emergency vet hotline. The folks at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center are super helpful. Their number is (888) 426-4435.

Give them all the info you have, like how much salt you think your dog ate and when it happened. They’ll help you figure out the next steps.

Treatment and Next Steps

If you’ve reached your vet, they might tell you to bring your dog in right away. Or they might give you instructions for things to do at home. Follow their advice to the letter.

Treatment usually involves a lot of fluids to help flush out the salt. Sometimes, medication might be needed. But that’s for the vet to decide.

So, keep an eye on your pup for the next few days. Make sure they’re drinking water and keep their diet bland. No treats or human food for a bit.

How To Prevent Future Snacking on Epsom Salt

Let’s avoid a repeat, shall we? Keep your Epsom salt and any other stuff that’s not dog-friendly in a high cupboard. Childproof locks are also a good idea.

And always be aware when you’re using Epsom salt for a bath or anything else. Keep that bathroom door closed!

Final Thoughts

Having a dog get into something they shouldn’t is a rite of passage for pet parents. But it’s our job to keep them safe. Now that you know what to do if your dog eats Epsom salt, you’ll be prepared if it ever happens.

Remember, when in doubt, call the vet. They’re the real experts here. Stay safe and give your pup some belly rubs from me!