By KRISTEN LEVINE
Tribune correspondent

TAMPA - Spring and summer months can pose poison hazards for pets because they may be exposed to more pesticides, insecticides, and lawn and garden sprays, experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center say.

“Pet owners can help prevent accidental exposures to lots of substances by always reading and following label instructions for safe use and storage,” says Dana Farbman, senior manager for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals poison control center.

Another big risk to animals is medicine intended for people, Farbman says.

People often assume that if medicine will help them, it will also help their pet, she says. That’s a dangerous assumption.

“In fact, human drugs can be quite harmful, even deadly, to pets depending on the circumstance of exposure,” Farbman says.

Last year, the animal poison control center received more than 46,000 calls involving pets ingesting human medications.

Just one extra-strength acetaminophen, found in medications such as Tylenol, can kill an average-sized cat, Farbman says.

Pills are just one of many potential poisons for pets.

The ASPCA’s poison control center compiled a list of the top 10 poisoning dangers for pets based on more than 100,000 calls received last year.

People Meds Top The List

Human medications, including painkillers, cold medications, antidepressants and dietary supplements, top the list as potential pet poisons.

“Owners should never give their pet any medication without the direction of a veterinarian,” advises Steven Hansen, senior vice president of the poison control center, in a news release from the ASPCA. “Medications should always be stored in a secure cabinet above the counter and out of reach of children and pets.”

Insecticides accounted for more than 21,000 calls to the center, making it No. 2 on the list.

Products used to kill fleas, ticks and other insects must be carefully selected for your pet. Some species of animals are particularly sensitive to certain types of insecticides, so it is vital to use a product specifically formulated for your pet.

“Always consult with your pet’s veterinarian before beginning a flea and tick control program,” Hansen says.

About 6,900 calls to the center involved a pet getting into rat poison. Consuming rat poison can cause life-threatening problems such as bleeding, seizures and damage to kidneys and other organs.

If you use rat poison around your house, be sure to place the bait only in areas inaccessible to animals, Hansen suggests.

Even veterinary medications can be dangerous if administered improperly.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, heartworm preventatives, de-wormers, antibiotics, vaccines and nutritional supplements accounted for 6,200 calls, making them the fourth most common source of poisoning.

“Although these products are formulated for use in pets, it is very important to always read and follow label directions for use exactly, “ Hansen says.

Many animal drugs are intended for a particular species only. Doses given to the wrong animal or too high of a dosage can result in serious problems.

The No. 5 spot on the top 10 list belongs to bleaches, detergents and disinfectants. Troubles arise when pets ingest or inhale dangerous cleaners and chemicals. This can happen when pet owners unknowingly clean their animal’s food and water bowls, crates or other areas with dangerous cleaners. Again, use these products carefully, read labels and keep them stored safely out of a pet’s reach.

Rounding out the list from six to 10 are herbicides, toxic plants, chocolate, home improvement products and fertilizers.

Comprehensive information on potential poisons for pets can be found by going to http://www.aspca.org/apcc.

Here are some tips to help you respond to a poisoning accident:

• Keep this information on hand: Your veterinarian’s telephone number and an emergency veterinary service recommended by your veterinarian.

• You may also call the ASPCA poison control center’s poison hot line at 1-888-426-4435. (Note: A fee of $55 for toxicological consultation may apply.)

When calling this hot line, be prepared to provide your name, address and telephone number and your pet’s species, breed, age, sex and weight.

You should also provide the name of the substance your pet has ingested, if you know. If possible, have the product or container and packaging available for reference. Know the approximate amount ingested and how long it has been since the exposure. Be able to explain all of the symptoms your pet is experiencing.

Also, keep a poison safety kit on hand for emergencies. It should contain:

• A fresh bottle of hydrogen peroxide (3%)

• A can of your pet’s favorite wet food

• Turkey baster, bulb syringe or large medical syringe

• Saline eye solution to flush out eye contaminants

• Artificial tear gel to lubricate eyes after flushing

• Mild grease-cutting dishwashing liquid for the animal after skin contaminations

• Rubber gloves

• Forceps to remove stingers

• Muzzle (remember, an excited animal may harm you)

• Pet carrier

Animal Coalition Of Tampa (ACT)

The Animal Coalition of Tampa has opened a low-cost community spay-neuter clinic for dogs and cats. Besides offering low-cost surgeries, the clinic participates in the county-funded $10 spay-neuter voucher program for those receiving public aid and offers free transportation for those who qualify. The clinic is at 1719 W. Lemon St., Tampa. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Surgeries are scheduled by appointment only. For information or to schedule an appointment, call the clinic at (813) 250-3900.

Meet Akitas

Akita Rescue will be at Petco, 136 S. Westshore Blvd., Tampa, from noon to 3 p.m. Sunday. Meet adoptable Akitas and learn about the breed. Application and home inspections are required for adoption. For information on this and future Akita events, call Peggy Koehler at (727) 643-3486.

Yappy Hour

All well-socialized, leashed dogs are welcome, and their human companions are invited to a Yappy Hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at New World Brewery, 1313 E. Eighth St., Ybor City. The event is open to those 18 and older. You can meet dog friends for play dates or get tips on the latest dog-socializing tips and trends. Gourmet treats and water are provided. There is a $5 cover charge. For information, call (813) 248-4969.

Write to pet-lifestyle expert Kristen Levine at Fetching Communications, P.O. Box 222, Tarpon Springs FL 34688; fax at (727) 934-6451 or e-mail .