The role of the poison center in veterinary poisonings: a survey.

The number of veterinary poisonings presented to this poison center has grown to over 1200 cases annually. To make sure that the poison center is working cooperatively with local veterinarians, a survey was sent out to 237 veterinary clinics state-wide. Of particular interest was whether the poison center had a role to play in the treatment of minor poisonings in companion animals. The results of 77 returned surveys indicate that the poison center is currently a major source of poison information and 95% of responders were satisfied with the information received; 73% felt that all minor ingestions should be handled in the home whenever possible, and 70% felt it would be appropriate for poison center staff to perform this function. This survey indicates that the poison center can play a significant role in the treatment of poisonings in small companion animals.