T12 THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2024
ADVERTISING FEATURE
timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST
e xpl or e FA R M F R E S H / S HOP S / L O C A L E AT S / W I N E R I E S / WA L K I NG T R A I L S
Your Pet and Hearing Aid Batteries Donna M. Stewart,M.A.,Aud(C),AUD/HIP Audiologist and Owner, Hear Inc.
B
utton cell lithium batteries are small, shiny, and fascinating to pets, especially dogs and cats who love to explore with their mouths. These tiny batteries, often found in everyday items like remote controls, toys, watches, and hearing aids, can pose serious risks if ingested by our furry friends.
WHY ARE BUTTON CELL BATTERIES DANGEROUS? When a pet swallows a button cell battery, the consequences can be dire. The battery can become lodged in the esophagus or stomach, and as it reacts with the moisture, can create an electric current. Th is reaction can cause severe burns or even perforations in the tissue within just a couple of hours. The chemicals inside the battery, including lithium, are highly corrosive and can cause significant damage to the gastrointestinal tract, leading to ulcers, bleeding, or even death if not treated promptly.
SIGNS YOUR PET MAY HAVE INGESTED A BATTERY It can be tricky to know if your pet has swallowed a battery, especially since they might not show symptoms right away. Some signs to watch out for include:
If you suspect your pet has ingested a button cell battery, it’s crucial to act quickly.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU THINK YOUR PET SWALLOWED A BATTERY Immediately contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital. Time is of the essence, so gett ing your pet to professional care as quickly as possible is vital. DO NOT try to induce vomiting, as this could cause more harm by bringing the battery back up through the esophagus. Your vet may perform an X-ray to determine the battery’s location and decide on the best course of action, which might include surgery to remove the battery or other treatments to minimize damage.
PREVENTING BATTERY INGESTION Prevention is always better than cure. To keep your pets safe: • Store items containing button cell batteries out of reach, especially in households with curious pets. • Ensure battery compartments in devices are secure and not easily accessible. • Dispose of old batteries properly, ensuring they’re not left where pets can find them.
• Drooling or difficulty swallowing • Vomiting or refusal to eat • Lethargy or signs of pain, such as whining or restlessness
By taking these precautions, you can help protect your pets from the dangers of button cell batteries, ensuring they stay happy, healthy, and out of harm’s way.
• Bleeding from the mouth or unusual pawing at the face
“DELTA-PAD AIR CONTROL” SPORTS BRA FOR ACTIVE OR EVERYDAY WEAR, THIS LIGHT MESH FABRIC IS SEMITRANSPARENT, CREATING A STYLISH LOOK THAT KEEPS YOU COOL
LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEED
*
To learn more, call
778-400-6291 victoriacremations.ca
Victoria Cremation Service
*Includes: Cremation, Arranging & Administration, Local transfer of deceased and shelter, a vehicle used for administration and transferring and a minimum required cremation container.
SHOP LOCAL AT MATTICK'S FARM, CORDOVA BAY
Arbor Memorial Inc.