Venomous snakes fall into two families: 1) the Elapidae, which include the cobra, mamba, and coral snakes; and 2) the Cortalidae, which include the true vipers (for example, puff adder, Russell’s viper, and the common European adder) and the pit vipers (for examp
Selenium is an essential element that is added to many feed supplements. Unfortunately, it has a narrow margin of safety. Too much selenium weakens the hooves, which tend to fracture when subjected to mechanical stress.
Salt (sodium chloride) toxicity can result when animals eat too much salt and do not have enough water to drink. Salt toxicity is directly related to water consumption and is unlikely if fresh drinking water is available. Mechanical failure of waterers, overcrowd
People who travel with service animals—for example, guide dogs for the visually impaired, or assistance dogs for those who are mobility impaired—do not have the choice of leaving their pet at home. In the United States, the Americans with Disabilities Act guarant
Dogs and sometimes cats are poisoned by mouthing certain types of toads. All toads produce venom, but the potency of the venom varies with species and geographic locations. Toad venom is a thick, creamy white, highly irritating substance. It can affect the heart,
Sweet clover poisoning is seen when animals eat spoiled sweet clover hay or silage. Any method of hay storage that allows sweet clover to mold increases the chance of a toxin forming in the hay. Weathered, large round bales, particularly the outer portions, usual
Poisonous spider bites are relatively uncommon and difficult to recognize. The bite of spiders of medical importance in the US is not particularly painful, so it is unusual for a spider bite to be suspected until signs appear. It is also unlikely that the offendi