Interview with the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center
March is recognized as National Poison Prevention Month, a dedicated time to raise awareness about the various substances that can pose risks to our beloved animal companions. In light of this, Dr. Chivvis, DVM had the privilege of interviewing Tina Wismer, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT, Senior Toxicologist at the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), with the help of Nicole Martin, CVT, Director of Business Development. Their insights shed light on the critical role the APCC plays in safeguarding pets from toxic exposures.
"Aside from a veterinary degree, what additional training do your vets undergo to be able to offer services through ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center?"
Tina Wisman, DVM, MS, DABVT, DABT, Senior Toxicologist for the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control
"All of our veterinarians that are hired must have served in a clinic for a full year (to have experience in the clinical field) before joining us. They receive a robust training regimen for the first five weeks or so and then are slowly integrated into our team, receiving additional training throughout their first year. Our new veterinarians start by interacting with pet owners first before moving into speaking with veterinarians and helping to manage cases. Our training regimen is carefully crafted to the individual’s needs. The APCC is an alternative residency that fulfills the requirements for both ABT and ABVT."
"How many people and pets does your company serve in a given year?"
"In a typical year, we help anywhere from 360,000-400,000 animals."
"What would you say are the top five toxins that you are seeing rise in popularity (i.e., Marijuana)? Versus what are the top five you've seen a decrease in (i.e., tobacco? harmful pesticides?)"
"Year after year, medications (both over-the-counter and prescription medications) tend to be in the top categories, along with food/drinks. Chocolate has been steadily growing. Interestingly enough, recreational drugs just started making the list over the past several years. While THC numbers are slowly declining, we are still appreciating a rise in hallucinogenic mushrooms (psilocybin and muscarine)."
"On average, what percentage of calls are often able to be handled at home, versus ones where you recommend immediate veterinary intervention?"
"It is estimated that about 50% of owners can manage their pets at home with caveats that if the patient develops clinical signs, they will need to see a veterinarian."
"Are your services available anywhere in the U.S.? What about Alaska/Hawaii?"
"Although the majority of our calls come from within the 50 US states (including Alaska and Hawaii), we also get calls from overseas occasionally."
"How many staff members does it take to be able to provide services 24/7/365?"
"We currently have a staff of close to 200 staff members that provide services on our Animal Poison Control lines – including veterinarians, licensed veterinary technicians, veterinary assistants, and 25 veterinarians boarded in Toxicology."
"How long has the ASPCA’s Poison Control Center been providing toxicology consults?"
"We’ve been in practice since 1978! We had meager beginnings starting out in a chicken coop with just one veterinarian and three graduate students. Now, with 47 years under our belts, we’re getting ready to celebrate our 5 millionth case this year!"
"Are there any other offerings you provide to owners or veterinarians to help them navigate toxin exposures?"
"At the heart of our culture is our mission to help as many animals as possible. We publish regularly (especially in peer-reviewed platforms), present at conferences, and extend our reach to the owner population by sharing tactics and educating people about toxin hazards via blog posts and social media. We also offer eight RACE-approved, free CE presentations every year for those in the veterinary community."
How can pet owners be prepared for toxic emergencies?
Being prepared for potential toxic exposures is paramount for every pet owner. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center operates a 24/7 hotline at (888) 426-4435, providing immediate assistance in emergencies. Having this number readily available can make a critical difference in urgent situations.
For a comprehensive understanding of dog emergencies and to familiarize yourself with the top 10 dog toxicities, consider exploring our new book, The Dog Owner’s Guide to Health Emergencies: Essential Tips to Recognize, Respond, and Prepare for Dog Emergencies. This resource is designed to help dog owners prepare for health emergencies, be better suited to recognize an emergency when it happens, and be able to respond effectively.
Conclusion:
National Pet Poison Prevention Month serves as a vital reminder of the hidden dangers that can threaten our pets. Through education, vigilance, and the support of organizations like the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, we can work together to ensure the safety and well-being of our cherished animal companions. The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center is always available 24/7 to assist you in cases of emergencies.
Dr. Gal Chivvis, DVM
Emergency Veterinarian
Founder of Critter Care Collective, LLC
