If the dose is large enough to cause poisoning, severe metabolic acidosis, shock and hepatic toxicity can develop 1 -5 days after the exposure. In fact, vomiting is such a common finding that if a dog does not vomit, it’s probable that a toxic dose was not ingested. After ingestion, vomiting (with or without blood) is one of the first signs of poisoning. 2 It is very irritating to the GI tract and has direct corrosive effects. This material is magnetic which allows for quick differentiation between packets containing iron and those containing silica gel or charcoal.Ī: Elemental iron can cause severe poisoning, even in the small amounts contained in one oxygen absorber packet. If the oxygen absorber is broken open, dark brown to rust colored material is visible.

Oxygen absorber packets are typically about 1×1” in size and are often found in packages of beef jerky, pepperoni, dried fruits, dog jerky treats, etc. This prevents oxidization (rancidity) of the food and preserves freshness 1. You’d need to administer the contents of thousands of canisters before achieving any therapeutic benefit! Best to stick with good old activated charcoal.Ī: Elemental iron granules are placed in small packets called oxygen absorbers are added to bags of pre-prepared or dehydrated food stuffs to absorb excess oxygen. In case you were hoping to save some money by saving the charcoal in these canisters for use in the clinic, think again. However, no true toxicity risk exists from the charcoal or external canister. These granules are not magnetic (as compared to iron).Ī: The charcoal is not intended to be consumed and therefor labeled “do not eat”.Ī: The cylinder can cause a foreign body obstruction in small dogs and can damage the oral cavity when chewed. If broken open the small black granules are visible. The beads do not enlarge in the stomach and the exterior packaging is usually soft and presents little risk of injury of obstruction.Ī: A specific type of prepared charcoal (similar to activated charcoal used in veterinary hospitals) is found in white plastic cylinders inside bags of prepared foodstuffs like dog treats, chews and jerky. If a dye is present, the silica gel will no longer be a clear to white but instead bright orange, blue, pink or green.Ī: No true toxicity risk exists from exposure to silica gel packets. Some silica products are mixed with a moisture indicator, these indicators may be toxic in large doses. Fortunately, silica dust is rarely encountered by our furry friends. In people who are chronically exposed to/inhaling silica, such as a employee in a mine or factory, a progressive debilitating disease called silicosis can develop. The dust from the processing and creation of silica is irritating to the skin, respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract. Silica gel packets are usually 1 x 2 inches and contain multiple small white, clear or opaque beads inside.Ī: Silica gel is not intended for consumption and therefor receives the label “do not eat”. It is placed in products to control the humidity and prevent degradation. However, one is a potential problem.Ī: Silica is a hard porous gel that is made synthetically and utilized because of its high affinity for water. Fortunately, most are harmless and require minimal or no veterinary care. Chewing up these little forgotten items is a ‘common pastime’ for canines. The purpose of these little packets is to either reduce moisture in the packaging or to absorb oxygen. In most dried food items, medications and even shoeboxes there is a little packet placed there by the manufacturer to maintain freshness.

Dog ate silica beads