In 2014, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Animal Poison Control Center fielded more than 167,000 cases of potential nonhuman animal toxicosis. Concomitantly, there remain limited free and reputable veterinary toxicology resources available for companion-animal (pet) caregivers (owners) seeking assistance and advice about potentially harmful exposures in animals. The objective of this study was to assess pet toxicant knowledge among a representative sample of Americans and gauge the need for additional toxicology resources. The study involved a survey designed to capture participants' ability to identify potential animal toxicants and what resource they would use if an accidental toxic ingestion occurred. Participants were able to correctly identify 52% of potential pet toxins. Women, older participants and participants from the South expressed more concern about each potential pet poison. Approximately half of participants indicated they would consult a veterinarian whereas most others indicated they would search the Internet for more information about pet toxicology. The findings suggest more veterinary poisoning education is needed for pet owners to be able to accurately distinguish potential pet toxicants from nontoxicants.
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