Give useful details such as the dogs age, medical history, and past health difficulties if any. The unscientific explanation is they are in there to keep stuff fresh. Though silica gel is chemically and biologically inert, the main risk is that packets can potentially cause an obstruction in the intestines if the whole packet is swallowed, especially in small dogs. Silicon dioxide, which is found naturally in sand, is a component of silica gel. As you know, dogs are drawn to eating many non-food items. These include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy and loss of . According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information, the active ingredientreduced irondoesn't absorb effectively in the gastrointestinal tract. Weve gathered information about oxygen absorbers and whether they can make a dog sick. Silica gel packets are commonly labeled with the message Silica Gel Do Not Eat to avoid moisture damage, and they are used as desiccants (drying agents). Click to get it NOW! For future reference, if your dog ate an entire packet the pet's saliva can mix with it and form a firm gel. Decontamination at home may be appropriate if the pet owner vomits with hydrogen peroxide and then gives it 1-3 teaspoons of aluminum or magnesium hydroxide. Before purchasing beef jerky, make sure it is clearly labeled, and avoid eating any packets with pink or blue beads. As the packets absorb oxygen, the iron inside turns to iron oxide. If the packet is swallowed whole, it could cause an obstruction in the digestive tract. They will also treat other symptoms as they arise. Most dried fruits and vegetables at home should not be stored for extended periods of time. The higher the temperature, the faster enzyme reactions speed up. As a result, they are labeled Do not consume. If you suspect your loved one is choking on silica gel, dial 911. And if your dog has eaten more than one packet, its best to call the vet right away. Small dogs have been the victims of the most severe cases of iron poisoning brought on by oxygen absorbers. Usually a 3% hydrogen peroxide mix can help to do this, but as the package is corrosive you should not induce vomiting unless specifically instructed by an expert. The color of an old or expired product, the particulate nature of it, and the difficulty in feeling the product from the outside indicate oxygenation. These packets are pretty interesting and work on the concept that iron rusts. It is very unlikely that either you or your pet will consume the sachets contents accidentally. No, it is not toxic. In rare cases, more serious problems can occur, such as difficulty breathing or low blood sugar levels. The vet will probably need to hospitalize your dog until his condition as stabilized. You, your children, and your dog will not be harmed if they consume silica gel, which is found in the do not eat packets. Youre thinking, just what in the *bleep* is in those damn bags anyway? This could take one or more days, depending on the severity of your canine companions condition. Oxygen absorbers are critical in the food industry. These packets are commonly found in packages of pepperoni, some beef jerky, and even some dog treats and the package is usually 1 x 1 inch square. Unfortunately, Ageless Oxygen Absorbers can be toxic to dogs. They may also give your dog medicine to relieve irritation of the digestive tract. Because of the porous pockets, air can travel inside and out of the bags. They are used to remove or decrease oxygen in a products packaging. Vitamin K also plays a role in regulating calcium levels in the body. This is especially dangerous if the dog has eaten one of his/her medications. Every time, packaging is the most dangerous part of all of these toxins. If your dog eats them, he or she may experience mild gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms such as stomach upset. If you havent noticed any strange symptoms after eating silica gel packets, youre probably not in any danger. If your dog vomits after eating it, give it three tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide orally every ten minutes for three days. I have a deep understanding of canine behavior, and Im always striving to learn more and perfect my techniques. My dog ate an oxygen-bearing packet. When you absorb oxygen, you do not release any harmful gases. I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix. When oxygen absorbers are depleted of iron, this can result in iron poisoning. Has your dog eaten an Ageless Oxygen Absorber? Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pocket (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Telegram (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Supplier Error Blamed in Poisoned Purina ProPlan Prescription Dog Food Recall, JBS, Worlds Largest Pet Food Ingredient Supplier, Caught Using Child Labor, USDA Certified Organic Pet Food: A Regulatory Mess, A Hippies Guide to Shopping For Sustainable Pet Food, Mars Petcares Sustainable Seafood Pet Food Campaign Sounds Great Until You Do a Little Digging. Due to the fact that the gel or packet and gel will not break down, choking can occur. Iron oxide, which is created when iron and oxygen are mixed, is dangerous to pets if consumed. As the packets absorb oxygen, the iron inside turns to iron oxide. Chewing up these little forgotten items is a 'common pastime' for canines. An example is the Antarctic ice fish, which lives at depths of up to 200 feet (60 meters) below the surface of the ocean where the ambient pressure is too low for the oxygen in its blood cells to dissolve. Our AGELESS product is made from all-natural ingredients that have been approved by the FDA. Symptoms include rapid breathing; trembling; weak pulse; and loss of consciousness. silica gel packets do not contain any toxic chemicals. The first step is always to contact a vet to get the appropriate medication prescribed. If at-home decontamination is appropriate, the pet owner may induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide and then give 1-3 teaspoons of aluminum or magnesium hydroxide (Alternagel or Milk of Magnesia) to reduce the systemic absorption of iron. Iron poisoning is usually detected in the early stages by vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, drowsiness, and a bloody GI lining. If your dog ingests an oxygen absorber from beef jerky, its not likely to cause any serious problems. A silica gel is a desiccant that is commonly used in small packets to prevent moisture from causing damage to food and industrial products. Instead, use a HACCP plan to control the situation. Today weve discussed what you can do if the dog ate desiccant and the good news is that gel, charcoal, or activated carbon desiccants are mild to even non-toxic where your dog is concerned. The byproduct is water and elemental iron. All opinions remain our own. If not done correctly, it might harm the esophagus. My name is Ken and Im one of the staff writers at Petloverguy.com. Vomiting (with or without blood) is a common first sign of poisoning. In this article were going to talk a little more about desiccant types, what you can do if your dog eats them, and more information that you need to know about desiccants and your dog. When vomiting (without blood) after ingestion is the first sign of poisoning. Early signs of poisoning can include vomiting which may contain blood, salivation, lack of interest in food and abdominal pain. Youll both be happier for it! No waiting for appointments or office hours. Furthermore, it can be used to extend the shelf life of perishable food. There is a significant difference in shelf life between products with a high oil content (for example, nuts, seeds, and whole grains) and products without oil. Then moving up to parakeets, guinea pigs, and even ducks. Despite the fact that they are non-toxic and do not pose a threat to humans, they do pose a choking hazard. 2. An oxygen absorber is a packet of elemental iron granules that is added to prepared or dehydrated food to absorb excess oxygen. However, there are cases where this doesn't happen because the organism has adapted to live in an environment with low levels of oxygen. Oxygen absorbers are also FDA-approved and are available in a variety of sizes. Beef jerky manufacturers can develop an oxygen absorber that meets their specific needs. The active ingredientreduced irondoesn't absorb well in the gastrointestinal system, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information. Phase 4 is when the dog will determine if the dog is safe from a fatal outcome. Diarrhea Vomiting Abdominal pain & swelling Loss of appetite Agitation Increased heart rate Low blood pressure Extreme fatigue Shock Seizure And more As a result, it will not cause poisoning in the body. If you give a dog an excessive amount of a vitamin then he/she could suffer from vitamin overload. Oxygen absorbers can be used to preserve almost any dry, low-fat food. Chelation therapy is another possible course of action, in which a pharmacological agent is used to bind to the bodys iron and direct it via the kidneys so that it may be eliminated through your dogs urine. I currently live with two yorkies and a chihuahua mix. Poisoned Pets is unique in that it is entirely free from commercial influence, it does not accept advertising, corporate or government funding, or participate in commercial sponsorships or endorsements. Rust is created when iron meets oxygen. Find me on: How do I absorb oxygen for my life? The beads do not enlarge in the stomach, and the packaging is usually soft and less likely to obstruct the stomach. Many oxygen absorbers contain iron fillings, clay, and salt. Before you change your pets diet, medication, or physical activity routine, consult with your veterinarian. It is critical to attempt to clear any remaining obstruction in the airway of the person who swallows the Do not Eat packet as soon as possible. When preparing or dehydrated food, an oxygen absorber is added in order to absorb excess oxygen. If you or someone you know needs help with a poison control center, it is readily available across the country. Typically, it will be one of 3 types - silica gel, charcoal, or iron. At Pet Poison Helpline, the most severe cases of iron poisoning from oxygen absorbers have occurred in small dogs (<15 pounds). Lets get started! When the jerky is spoiled, it can cause a variety of unpleasant symptoms such as stomach pain, headaches, nausea, and fever. During the first stage of poisoning, you can expect the following symptoms in your dog: Keep in mind that not all these symptoms might occur, and even if there is only one manifestation, it is advisable that you seek a professional immediately. No high fees. The iron is in the form of elemental iron granules. The withdrawal of silica gel from the stomach can result in a variety of unpleasant side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. What happens when you take too many iron supplements? Think about the recent scare involving Petcos stainless steel dog bowls contaminated with radioactive scrap metal containing Cobalt-60. This means if you click on the link and purchase this item or service, we will receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you. Theyll have a brownish powder inside them and you can further test them by applying a magnet. However, a dog may eat one of these packets because hes curious about it. If your dog ingests a large amount of the contents of the moisture pack, they may also require fluids and electrolytes to prevent dehydration. Thank you! Medications can cause symptoms similar to those of vitamin overload and if your dog has taken medication and then started eating himself/herself up then you will need to take him to the vet immediately so that his/her stomach can be checked for signs of damage. No high fees. What should a diver do if they start hyperventilating? Even if the oxygen absorber packet contains only trace amounts of elemental iron, the metal can cause severe poisoning. The silica gel packets that come with some of the food products may entice a dog to consume them. If the iron oxygen absorber packet is . Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Oxygen absorbers contained in pet treats can cause iron toxicity in dogs. Iron oxide is not toxic; however, it can cause GI upset. Make a gift online or to find out more about Poisoned Pets' fundraising efforts, click here. Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. These stages are clusters of symptoms that manifest themselves over a specific period of time, which starts from the moment of ingestion, up until weeks after the occurrence. Ive been working with dogs since I was a child and have been dedicated to helping them learn and grow ever since. Better safe than sorry! Your veterinarian will take a few crucial measures to remove the extra iron from your dogs system after diagnosing iron toxicity. Chat With a Veterinarian For Personalized Help. The prognosis is favorable if your dog shows no symptoms, and you seek treatment immediately. While oxygen absorbers are safe when used correctly, what happens if a dog eats one? If this is not possible, the person should call 911 and seek emergency medical care. Vomiting (without or with blood) is one of the first symptoms of poisoning. My specialty is helping train difficult breeds that require a more detailed approach, such as German Shepherds and Pit Bulls. The vet will also treat other symptoms as they arise. The iron in the Ageless Oxygen Absorber rusts when the packets absorb oxygen. cobalt chloride, a toxic substance, is used to treat these packets, making them potentially hazardous to ingest. Food spoilage can occur in a variety of ways due to oxygen. Left untreated, iron toxicity can cause death in dogs. Learn how your comment data is processed. Help support her work by making a donation today. The results indicate that the contents contained iron concentrations ranging from 50% to 70%. Silica gel is not poisonous, but some other desiccants can be. If the silica gel packets are mishandled, it can be difficult to ingest beef jerky, a popular snack. The oxygen in jerky bags is depleted as a result of chemical reactions, which are then absorbed by the animal. Small dogs are usually the most toxic. This is an emergency. Irons toxic effect is primarily caused by the release of iron-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) that directly damage the gastrointestinal epithelial lining. What happens when you irradiate a radioactive material? Food packaging oxygen absorbers are used to prevent color changes and infestations. This principle can also be used to preserve foods. You may also experience shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Iron oxygen absorbers are little packets that can be found in most dry foods for dogs in order to keep them bacteria-free and ensure longer shelf life. In addition to supporting the growth of aerobic microorganisms such as fungi and mold, oxygen is the most important element in the atmosphere. While Ageless Oxygen Absorbers are safe when used as directed, what happens if a dog eats one of these packets? Clear Acrylic Modern Dog Gates: A Stylish Way to Secure Your Pup at Home, A Female Dogs Ovaries And Uterus Are Removed Through An Incision In Her Abdomen After She Is Spayed, 3 Things To Keep In Mind When Using A Heating Pad In A Dog House, The Cliff House: A Historic Restaurant With A Stunning View, How To Turn A Storage Shed Into A Dog House, To Sweater Or Not To Sweater: That Is The Question, How To Reduce The Amount Of Dog Hair In Your House. The most common side effect is gastrointestinal upset, including vomiting and diarrhea. However, even if the dog does not vomit right away, a trip to the vet is always required in order to determine if there will be delayed effects. While feverishly poring over article after article, study after study about the effects of irradiation on food until I thought my head would explode, I came across the answer to your question: Just what, in dogs name, is in those freshness packets anyway and more importantly, will that stuff kill my dog? If you experience any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. When it comes to oxygen absorbers, the ingredient list is frequently absent from the outer package, making it difficult for animal health professionals to decide on the best course of action. Iron is a heavy metal and can cause serious health problems if not disposed of properly. Viewed 35k times. They usually contain reduced iron as the active ingredient although this is rarely stated on the external packaging. Some dogs dont exhibit any early symptoms, but after some time, they may develop intestinal obstruction and stricture. The use of oxygen absorbers and silica gel packets in food packaging, such as beef jerky or pet treats, can result in iron poisoning.
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