A Dog's Day at the Spa Turns Into a Trip to the Emergency Room

Doggy Spa Day Gone Wrong

In an unexpected turn of events, a casual spa day for Kate Vaughan's dog, Maya, turned into a frantic emergency trip. The incident highlights potential dangers lurking in everyday cosmetic products.

In search of relief from headaches and puffy eyes, Kate purchased a cooling face mask. However, her plans took a chaotic turn when Maya decided to chew on the mask instead of wearing it. Kate, who lives in Florida with her family and four dogs, was unaware of the impending crisis until she discovered the shredded remnants of the mask. Initially, Kate mistook another dog for the culprit, only to find Maya vomiting the gel from the mask shortly after.

“As soon as I saw the chewed-up mask, I yelled at the wrong dog. But when Maya began vomiting, I immediately realized she was responsible,” Kate recounted. Concern quickly mounted as she observed that Maya was behaving unusually wobbly the following day.

Believing that Maya would merely vomit up the mask's contents, Kate delayed contacting a veterinarian. However, Maya’s condition worsened overnight, prompting Kate to seek urgent advice from toxicology specialists at the Pet Poison Helpline. Dr. Renee Schmid, a senior veterinary toxicologist at the helpline, noted that some cosmetic products, including face masks, may contain acrylamide—a chemical compound known to be toxic to both pets and humans.

“Acrylamide can lead to gastrointestinal distress, nervous system issues, and even organ failure in severe cases,” Dr. Schmid explained, emphasizing the rising concerns surrounding pet safety during National Poison Prevention Month.

Upon arrival at the Veterinary Emergency Clinic of Central Florida, Maya was panting and visibly anxious but had stopped vomiting. After reviewing the case, the medical team learnt that the face mask likely contained acrylamide, leading to the initial symptoms. The veterinarian team promptly administered medication to manage Maya’s nausea and started intravenous fluids while monitoring her health closely. Blood tests were also conducted to evaluate potential damage to her liver and kidneys.

“Maya is 13 years old, so I'm amazed she recovered so well. She’s back to her playful self!” remarked Kate. The cost of the veterinary care totaled approximately $4,700. Despite the hefty bill, Kate was grateful for the swift action that saved Maya’s life.

This incident serves as a wake-up call for all pet owners about the hidden dangers in everyday products. Dr. Schmid urged pet lovers to be cautious and vigilant about what they bring into their homes. “The number of calls related to acrylamide poisoning from seemingly harmless products is rising. Educating pet owners is critical,” she said.

Pet Poison Helpline, a trusted resource for pet health emergencies, is available around the clock. They provide support for both pet owners and veterinary professionals dealing with poisoning cases. Their expert advice extends to all species, ensuring that every pet, regardless of type, receives the necessary care in times of distress.

As more pet owners seek to pamper their furry friends, it's crucial to understand the risks associated with common household items. Products containing acrylamide are becoming increasingly prevalent, calling for more stringent testing and awareness regarding pet safety. With the right knowledge and precautions, pet owners can create a safe environment while still indulging their pets in moments of joy.

For assistance or emergencies regarding potential poisoning, pet owners can contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680. Their services are crucial in protecting beloved companions and ensuring their health and safety in homes filled with potentially hazardous products.