Are you aware that Beagles may not be safe even in the comforts of your home? Yes it's true! Some of the household items people regularly use may pose hazard to a dog's health. Getting all the necessary items such as leash, collars and dishes is not enough preparation therefore. Every dog owner should also make sure that the dog will not be exposed to items such as acids, bleach, lead, moth balls and countless other items we find ideal in keeping our homes clean.

Cleansers, toilet bowl cleaners and pool chemicals contain acids such as hydrochloric acid, sulfuric acid, nitric acid and phosphoric acid. If any of these chemicals is ingested, it may cause ulcer in the mouth, larynx and esophagus, drooling, lack of appetite, vomiting, panting and shock. Give your dog water or milk. If exposed in the eye, flush eyes with either water or sterile saline for 30 minutes. If exposed to the skin, flush the affected area with running water for 30 minutes. Have your vet examined your dog.

Alkalis are also contained in toilet bowl cleaners, drain cleaners and dishwasher detergents. It can also be found in ammonia and alkali batteries. These items cause damage to the tissues by burning it deeper and more severe compared to the damage caused by acids. Immediate action is similar to that of exposure to acids.

Bleach and clorox are common in almost every household. These items contain various poisonous chemicals such as sodium hypochlorite, sodium peroxide and hypochlorite salts. These items can irritate the dog's mucous membranes and esophagus. When ingested, a dog may suffer from drooling, vomiting, abdominal pain and sore throat. If inhaled, symptoms are coughing, difficulty in breathing or retching. If the skin is exposed, the hair coat should be washed and rinsed thoroughly.

Another harmful household items are moth balls. I remember during our childhood days, my cousin accidentally ate one of the moth balls we found in the closet, thinking it was a candy. If this happens to children, this can happen to animals too. If ingested, this can cause vomiting and seizures. You can also smell the odor of mothballs from your dog's breath, mouth and vomitus.

Experts suggest that these items should not be left scattering around. It should be placed in a safe area away from your dog's reach. Animals are not very good in eliminating toxins in their bodies. Exposure to these items may cause various health hazard. Your Beagles deserve a safe and poison-free home to live in.

Richard Cussons is a dog lover and has written various articles about dogs. Find out more about Beagle training at this site for Beagles.