If you're a Labradoodle owner, one of your worst fears is probably accidental poisoning. Not by an individual, but by your dog eating something they shouldn't have.

Here's a quick "lesson" on what to do should that occurance happen to you and your Labradoodle.

Vomiting, convulsions, pain, trembling, panting, drooling and coma are all symptoms of poisoning. These all however are symptoms of other maladies as well. So if your dog displays any of these symptoms you should investigate the possibility of poisoning immediately.

It's uncommon for dogs to be deliberately poisoned. Dog poisoning typically occurs when they chew plants sprayed with pesticides or herbicides, by gnawing on old treated or painted wood, by catching rodents that have been poisoned, by ingesting poison intended for other animals or bugs, or by eating garbage containing a poisonous substance.

Poisons aren't often easily traced, so it's important we know first aid procedures to follow in case your Labradoodle might have been poisoned.

If you know the poison is a corrosive, such as an acid or a petroleum product, don't induce vomiting. Rinse the mouth and give 1-2 tablespoons of cooking or mineral oil orally.

If not a corrosive, induce vomiting immediately. An emetic such as ipecac is the best method for doing this. Only giving the poison a few minutes to work in the system may result in irreparable damage. You can make your own emetic by mixing equal parts hydrogen peroxide and water. Force your dog to swallow one and a half tablespoons for each ten pounds of body weight. Puppies need less than one tablespoon, and large dogs require seven to eight tablespoons. Holding the dog's muzzle in a manner that prevents breathing through the nose will force them to swallow the mixture. The dog will expel the contents of its stomach in two to three minutes. If no hydrogen peroxide is readily available, mustard or a strong salt solution will also work, but not as effectively.

Call your veterinarian as soon as you have administered the emetic. If you know the source of the dog poison and have a package it came in, check the label for an antidote. If you don't know the source of the poison, your veterinarian will likely be able to figure it out based on the symptoms, and will be able to prescribe further treatment.

If there's even a remote chance the poison can cause intestinal problems, it's vital all traces of the poison be eradicated before administering drugs which will prevent bowel movement.

I hope this gives you a basic idea of what to do - and let's hope it's something you or I never have to face with your dog.