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Almost Poisoned our Dog!

By Doug Francis

Cairn Terrier Vienna Virginia

Yes, he does look like Toto…

Understand that he was almost poisoned… but this situation did have me calling the dog vet in a panic.

Here is the gripping story.

One evening about four or five years ago after my wife and I had put the kids to bed and we were watching The Mentalist, we watched (in shock) as a tiny mouse ran across the room. He was really moving quickly and scurried under the basement door disappearing for good.

Ever had that happen?

So the next day I purchased some mouse traps and a box of Ortho mouse bait packets. Ortho baits work because the mice chew through the package, eat the bait and eventually die. Actually, the peanut butter on the mouse trap did the job!

When we got our dog a couple of years ago, I remembered those Ortho baits and picked them up and tossed them in the trash. All of them, so I thought.

On Monday morning while working in my home office, Skipper (our dog) came charging up the stairs with something in his mouth. Sensing something was wrong, I called for him to follow me to the fridge for what he knows is a platinum-level treat of cheese. He quickly ditched the white package and came running.

At that moment I picked up the package to see it was an Ortho mouse packet. He had punctured the packaging and there was the blue poison.

Oh ShiT!

Do you think you just poisoned your dog?

I quickly found the number for our dog vet at Great Falls Animal Hospital to get some advice.

They suggested that I contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center immediately, (888) 426-4435. There is a $65 fee for the phone consultation, and after I gave them the DEA Control number off the package I knew that kipper was on the road to recovery.

Anyway, I decided that I should let my Northern Virginia clients know if they are looking for a new vet in their community that these are the two animal vets I have brought Skipper to:

  • Great Falls Animal Hospital ~ 703-759-2330
  • Town & Country Animal Hospital ~ 703-273-2110

Luckily Skipper was fine although he had to endure a little forced vomiting and get his blood tested twice. I understand that, for pet owners, their pets are truly family members.

I’m open to tips you might want to share here to keep your pet safe at home. ~ Leave a comment ~
Here is a quick video from a vet on the topic…


How to Tell if Your Dog Has Eaten Rat Poison — powered by ehow
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Filed Under: Blog, Living Here Tagged With: Northern Virginia, real estate, Veterinarian

About Doug Francis

A seasoned Realtor specializing in unique and new homes around Vienna, Virginia, Doug has seen consumer behavior, negotiations and communication styles change. At his original brokerage, he was the first agent to add an email address. Imagine! Outside real estate, he plays tennis, is a Washington Capitals fan, spends time with Skipper (his dog), and enjoys the restaurant scene in the DCA. He's a Boston University graduate who feels morning coffee is non-negotiable.

Vienna real estate agent Doug Francis

When we bought our house in Vienna, we were thinking about raising the kids, building an addition, and knowing the neighbors. Today, many of those great neighbors have retired and I was able to help them take that next step smoothly.

So, what’s next after your 25 years? It’s a conversation many of my clients are having with me as they plan to move to the beach, travel, or get closer to grandkids. Helping them see their future, sell their current home, and move ahead with their updated plan has been an interesting new chapter.

My background: I am an active licensed agent in Virginia, have negotiated hundreds of sales contracts, work at TTR Sotheby’s International Realty in McLean, and help clients get organized helping maximize the value for today’s home buyer. I donate to the Town of Vienna tree replacement fund, participate in a neighborhood citizens association, and try my best to stay in shape.

Let’s discuss your moving plans: Email doug@dougfrancis.com or call me at (703) 304-6827 .  Cheers!

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About Doug Francis

I am a Realtor with TTR Sotheby's International Realty® just outside Washington D.C. in Northern Virginia. I'm licensed in Virginia with a focus on Vienna, VA real estate since 1991.

That deep knowledge is valuable, especially in today's fast-paced market where advice is critical. Although many of my clients are personally referred, I am available to help you too and am accepting new clients right now.

Feel free to contact me at 703-304-6827 or email me at doug@dougfrancis.com anytime!

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TTR Sotheby's International Realty
6723 Whittier Avenue McLean, VA 22101

Office: 703-319-3344
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