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January 7, 2007
ASPCA Poison Control Hotline
As a card-carrying member of the ASPCA, I have known for quite a while that they operate a poison control hotline. In fact, I have a magnet with the toll-free number on my refrigerator. It’s up there with my disaster preparedness tips magnet, my compounding pharmacy magnet, my vet’s business card magnet, and my (human) nurse hotline magnet. I have a lot of other magnets, most of which have a story behind them, mostly related to my travels. However, even though it has remained on my fridge for several years, the Poison Control Center magnet is not one I ever expected to have its own story.
In general, Max (our current foster bunny) keeps us on our toes. One of his favorite activities (when he can get away with it) is to charge down the hallway connecting the bedrooms, zip around our room and up over our bed, leap down and dash into my closet. Mostly he hops across my shoes, through the pants and dresses that reach nearly to the floor, chews on a stray shopping bag or shoe box until I shoo him on his way. One evening, Max went into his usual routine as I sat and watched television. As he disappeared into the closet, I began to get up to chase him out. But I had my hands full with Stuart, our very nimble pet mouse, whom I had to secure before I could divert my full attention to Max. As I quickly placed Stuart in his cage, I heard Max chewing. To my horror, I found him in an open shoe box with the little packet of those moisture control beads torn open. Now, I didn’t see him actually eat any of them, so I couldn’t be sure. But my mind started racing. Of course it was 10:00 at night. What to do, what to do? I tried to control my rising panic. Then I remembered the hotline. I dialed, was advised of the $55 consultation fee (what choice did I have?), and was patched through to the attending vet. After a few initial questions, I shakily explained the situation. Much to my relief, the vet informed me that the material used in those packets is “inert” and non-toxic. WHEW!!! However, it is a desiccant (which is used for drying), so I should keep an eye on him for signs of mild stomach upset. As I watched Max greedily eat his greens, leftover pellets, hay, and a few remnants of a Busy Bunny basket, I realized how lucky I’d gotten. Lesson learned: supervise, supervise, supervise. Even though I know Max’s routines, he can find new trouble in old places.
And for reference, the number is 1-888-426-4435. May you never need it.
Posted by Terri at January 7, 2007 11:19 PM