Stacia Harris

March 19, 2024

It’s National Pet Poison Prevention Week. Pets can be surrounded by dangerous items that they shouldn’t ingest or be exposed to. This includes human food, human medicine and dangerous household products to name a few. This month is dedicated to making sure people know what they can do to prevent and treat pet poisoning.

“Pet poisonings should be addressed as soon as possible by a veterinarian,” said Dr. Steven Marks. “Most poisonings do not have specific antidotes or a one-size-fits all approach and require supportive care from a veterinarian.”

Prevention and preparedness can save time and a life in the event your pet ingests or is exposed to something dangerous.

“Pet parents can be ready for any emergency by knowing where local veterinary care is available at all times of day, especially after hours,” said Marks “I’d recommend saving to your phone the number to several offices that are open during the day and those open on nights and weekends.”

You can also save time by calling the vet before you head to their office.

“It’s important to call the veterinarian’s office ahead of time. That will allow staff time to prepare for your arrival and collect any important information as soon as possible. This is why having the number saved in your phone is such an important time-saver. Don’t forget to bring the container, packaging, or label of any products the pet has been exposed to, added Marks.”

Here are some more prevention tips from Dr. Marks:

• Carefully note in your home which items are dangerous and reduce exposure to them, similar to child-proofing a home.
• Never give medication to your pet without a specific prescription from a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM). Many drugs that are safe for humans can be harmful to animals. Even those that are safe for pets are given at a much different dosing level.
• Do not initiate any treatment without consultation with a DVM.

According to the Pet Poison Helpline, some of the most commonly ingested toxins for dogs, cats and exotic pets include chocolate, grapes/raisins, garlic, anti-depressants/anti-anxiety medication, Xylitol (found in many sugar-free products), lilies and rodent poison. Cannabis products and other recreational drugs are also incredibly dangerous.

• https://betterpet.com/are-onions-toxic-to-dogs/

Onions are one of many common human foods that are toxic to dogs. Here’s what to do if your dog eats an onion.

Written by Emily Johnson & Andrew Corti-Cervantes 

— Medically reviewed by Dr. Erica Irish & Dr. Jennifer Schott 

Updated March 1, 2024

Table of Contents

The essentials

• Avoid onion products — Onion powder is more toxic to dogs than fresh onion and appears in a surprising number of foods. 
• Watch for signs of onion toxicity — Even a small amount of onion can trigger symptoms including lethargy, panting, decreased appetite, vomiting, and elevated heart rate.
• Onion toxicosis can be fatal — Clinical signs often show up within 24 hours and quickly worsen, so it’s vital to get your pup to a veterinarian ASAP.

Are onions toxic to dogs?

Yes, onions are among the foods considered toxic to dogs. They contain a compound known as N-propyl disulfide  , which causes oxidative damage to a dog’s red blood cells, resulting in anemia and, in extreme cases, death. 

Whether raw or cooked, all parts of the onion plant are toxic to dogs, including the flesh, leaves, juice, and any processed powders. The same goes for the rest of the allium family, including chives, leeks, red, white, yellow, sweet, or green onions, and even garlic.

How much onion is toxic to dogs?

Onion poisoning gets worse the more onions a dog ingests. It’s commonly reported in pets who consume more than 0.5% of their body weight in onions, though the exact amount of onions that would be dangerous for your dog depends on factors including their weight, age, breed, and any underlying medical conditions they might already have (like diabetes, liver disease, or anemia). 

👉 Certain Japanese dog breeds, including Akitas and Shiba inus, have proven especially susceptible to onion toxicosis.

Toxic levels of onion, based on size of dog

These servings are calculated using one medium-sized onion weighing half a pound as a base (the equivalent of one cup of diced onions, or one tablespoon of onion powder).

Symptoms of onion toxicity in dogs

If you think your dog may have eaten an onion or onion powder, look out for:

• Lethargy. Watch for a lack of interest in playtime, walks, and other activities your pup usually loves.
• Weakness. Dogs may collapse, take longer to stand, be unsteady on their feet, or experience shaky limbs. 
• Decreased appetite. Your pup might be uninterested in food and treats or refuse their favorite foods altogether.
• Pale gums. Any gum discoloration that isn’t normal for your dog might indicate a problem.
• Fainting. Watch your dog’s overall responsiveness and for any sudden losses of consciousness.
• Reddish urine. Red or pink discoloration in your dog’s urine after exposure to onion is a sign that something is wrong.
• Vomiting. Drooling and dry heaving are frequently seen before a dog begins vomiting, which can all be signs of a more serious health problem.
• Elevated heart rate. Larger dogs have a slower heart rate (about 70 beats per minute), while smaller dogs have a faster heart rate (about 120 BPM). Dogs with noticeably rapid heart rates should be seen by a vet.
• Panting. While normal for excited dogs, when combined with other symptoms, heavy panting could indicate a serious problem.

Treating onion toxicity in dogs

If your dog is exhibiting any of the above symptoms, the best thing you can do is to get them to your vet as soon as possible. Your veterinarian will do bloodwork and diagnose your dog’s condition based on their symptoms and test results. If the blood tests detect hemolytic anemia (the formation of Heinz bodies  on a blood smear) after possible onion exposure, all signs point toward onion toxicity.

If your dog recently consumed onions, your vet may induce vomiting to try and remove the toxins from their body. Alternatively, they may give your dog activated charcoal to help absorb the toxins in their stomach. 

Intravenous fluids can also help flush your dog’s bloodstream and rehydrate them if they’ve been vomiting. In extreme cases, your dog may require a blood transfusion or supplemental oxygen.

Safe vegetables for dogs

While onions are toxic, there are plenty of healthy and safe vegetables for dogs  . These include:

• Broccoli. Broccoli is high in fiber and vitamin C and low in fat but is known to cause gas when given in large amounts. It’s best used as an occasional treat.
• Brussels sprouts. Loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, Brussels sprouts are healthy but can also cause gas.
• Carrots.  A great low-calorie snack that is high in fiber and beta-carotene (which produces vitamin A). Plus, they’re great for your dog’s teeth!
• Celery. Full of vitamins A, B, and C, celery is also known to promote a healthy heart and fight cancer.
• Green beans. High in fiber and low in calories, green beans are also full of healthy vitamins and minerals. When buying canned green beans, look for low-salt or no-salt options.
• Peas. All types of peas are safe and healthy for dogs, including green peas, snow peas, sugar snap peas, and garden or English peas. They have several vitamins and minerals and are high in protein and fiber.

Your dog may not be able to eat onions like we can, but there are plenty of dog-safe foods out there you can use to add some variety to their regular treat regimen. Just make sure to get your vet’s okay before introducing any “people foods” into their diet. 

When in doubt, remember that commercially prepared, vet-formulated dog food is always the safest option. It may be tempting to share everything we eat with our furry best friends, but keeping certain foods to ourselves is a simple, effective way to keep our pups healthy.

Frequently asked questions

Are onions bad for dogs or cats? 

Plants that are members of the allium family (including garlic, shallots, leeks, and onions) are all toxic to dogs and cats. These plants contain harmful compounds known as disulfides and thiosulfinates, which cause gastroenteritis, break down the body’s red blood cells, and eventually lead to anemia. In severe cases, onion poisoning can be fatal for pets. 

Will a small amount of garlic hurt my dog? 

Since garlic is smaller and about five times more concentrated than onion, dogs can experience toxicity symptoms after ingesting just one clove’s worth. Still, most dogs would need to eat several times that amount to consume a lethal dose of garlic, so your dog will probably be okay if they eat a couple of tiny pieces that accidentally fall on the floor. Keep in mind that like onions, garlic is especially toxic to particular types of dogs, especially Japanese breeds. 

How much onion is a toxic amount for dogs?

If your dog gets into onions, it only takes .5% of their body weight to be a toxic amount. That’s equal to one small onion for a medium-large dog.

How long does it take for onion toxicity in dogs?

Symptoms typically show up within 24 hours but can be delayed for up to seven days after the onion is ingested.

Why are onions harmful to dogs?

Onions contain N-propyl disulfide, a toxic compound that causes a breakdown of red blood cells, leading to anemia in dogs.

What happens if dogs eat onions?

Dogs who eat onions can develop a condition called hemolytic anemia. This condition breaks down a dog’s red blood cells, leaving them without enough red blood cells to function properly. It can lead to limb weakness, fainting, vomiting, pale gums, decreased appetite, and more. Severe onion poisoning in dogs can be fatal.

© 2024 Betterpet – Advice from veterinarians and actual pet experts

from the Whole Foods Journal

By Editorial Staff Published:February 9, 2024

This probably goes without saying, but always keep potentially harmful items in closets, drawers, or cabinets that your dog can’t open, not on a table or countertop or in a bag left on the floor. Make sure your kids understand these rules. And always supervise your dog’s play indoors and out. A curious puppy or dog can quickly find a way into even items that seem harmless — but can actually be quite harmful to pets. Here’s a rundown of common things you might have in your home.

1. Xylitol. It’s a low-calorie sweetener that is derived from birch trees. It was first created in Finland during World War II, when sugar supplies were interrupted. Xylitol has a lot of dental benefits for humans, including the prevention of cavities, dental plaque, dry mouth, and bad breath. It also has the unique ability to remineralize tooth enamel. You can find xylitol in candy, nasal sprays, mouthwash, gum and as an artificial sweetener. Dogs, however, should not consume xylitol. In dogs, xylitol causes a rapid drop in blood sugar. This can cause seizures in dogs, which sometimes lead to death.
2. Chocolate. While the rule that the darker the chocolate, the healthier it is may be true for people, the opposite is true for dogs. Chocolate’s problem ingredients are theobromine and caffeine, which dogs absorb through their gastrointestinal tracts too fast and put damaging stress on the liver. In dark chocolate, these naturally occuring ingredients are more concentrated and are likely to lead to serious problems, death included. Note: Cocoa powder, in some cases, can be as concentrated as dark or baking chocolate. Even cocoa bean shell mulch, a popular garden product, can be toxic when swallowed by chocolate-craving chow hounds.
3. Grapes and Raisins. The toxicity of grapes to dogs is still not really understood by scientists. Reactions vary from dog to dog. Some dogs can eat grapes regularly and never have problems. Accidentally eating a few grapes probably won’t affect a dog of any size. But when ingested in siginificant quantities – as little as 2.5 ounces – this fruit can cause kidney failure.
4. Onions. Onions and their cousins, garlic, are rich in a compound called thiosulphate, which is toxic to dogs. Being much more thiosulphate-potent than garlic, onions pose a threat to dogs if they eat just a single serving – about one good-sized onion. Thiosulphate causes hemolytic anemia (“Heinz factor”) in dogs, a condition that bursts red blood cells. Symptoms of hemolytic anemia can develop in a range of time – generally within a few hours, but can also be after a few days. Signs of hemolytic anemia include depression, weakness, no interest in food, vomiting and diarrhea. In a progressed case, the dog’s urine will become red from dam-aged blood cells. As oxygen-carrying red blood cells die off and leave the dog’s body, the dog becomes suffocated.
5. Garlic. Garlic is a tricky one because when used topically and sprinkled over food, it is great for dogs. It fights ear infections, internal infections, boosts immune systems and lowers blood sugar. But it also contains thiosulphate. Many holistic veterinarians and health care experts believe that feeding doses up to 1 small clove of garlic per 20 pounds of body weight per day are not likely to pose problems for dogs. When uses topically for wounds or ear infections, it is harm-less. If your dog were to eat a whole head of garlic, on the other hand, refer to the earlier section on onions.
6. Macadamia Nuts. The good news is that we have no documented cases of macadamia nut poisoning that has led to death. It alleviates after it passes through the dog – in around 12 to 36 hours. The bad news is symptoms are dramatic. Hind-end weakness, lethargy, depression, vomiting, and diarrhea all come after eating as little as 1 gram of macadamia nuts per pound of a dog’s body weight.

For a more comprehensive guide on keeping your dog safe, download Dog Dangers now.

from MAIDS.COM

From the Boston Herald on January 20, 2917

Q My 3-year-old female Weimaraner got into a large quantity of grapes at the house this morning. After some quick research, I reached for some hydrogen peroxide and gave her a few teaspoons. Within a few minutes, she vomited up three large piles of the barely chewed grapes. I took her into my vet’s office, and they ran some tests and gave her some fluids and medication. She seems well now. What could have happened to my dog if she had eaten these grapes and I was not around?

A Grape toxicity can lead to kidney failure, with typically the signs of vomiting and diarrhea occurring a few hours after ingestion. Lethargy and a loss of appetite also can be seen, along with a lack of urine production. Raisins can also be toxic. Since they are dried grapes, they are toxic in a smaller quantity. The toxic dose for grapes is about 1⁄2 ounce per pound of body weight, but that can vary, so any consumption should be taken seriously.

I often suggest that if vomiting can be induced within an hour of an ingested toxic substance, then chances are good that the toxin will not have detrimental effects on the patient. One must be cautious in using hydrogen peroxide. The actual suggested dosage to induce vomiting is 1 ml per pound, and never give a large dog more than three tablespoons.

Substances Poisonous to your Pet

Cicadas do not pose a major health risk for pets, according to experts including veterinarian Padma Yadlapalli, who says pets will likely spit out any cicada they try to eat. If ingested, gastrointestinal upset or possibly blockage could occur, so veterinarians advise discouraging ingestion. However, there is no danger of disease: “While they might be a nuisance, they don’t sting, they don’t bite, and they don’t carry disease,” says veterinarian Shelly Rubin. The Baltimore Sun (5/15), DogChannel.com (5/15)

As these red-eyed screechy little bugs begin emerging from the ground, concern among pet parents rises as well. This brood is different from the one we saw in 2004 and its appearance in this state will be limited to parts of Southern Maryland, which is good news. There are several thing pet owners should keep in mind during cicada season:

1.They are not toxic to pets. Most of the time, they are more of a nuisance than a health hazard.

2.Your pet might be interested in trying to eat one, but most likely would spit it back out right away. Cicadas might cause upset like vomiting or diarrhea if eaten, but this would be temporary and respond to conservative treatment.

3.Rarely, if your pet decides to overindulge and eat them like chocolate, they could technically cause an obstruction because your pet would not be able to digest them. But most likely they will just pass on and be seen in the stool.

4.Cicadas cannot transmit any diseases.

5.They do not bite or cause any skin irritation or other dermatological issues

The bright side of all of this is that cicadas are beneficial to the environment because they aerate the soil as they emerge. Our guests are only here for a short stay!

This week’s expert is Dr. Padma Yadlapalli with Freetown Animal Hospital in Columbia. Send your questions to sun.unleashed@gmail.com.

Pets are exposed to the same potentially harmful substances as the humans they live with, possibly to a greater extent because they are smaller and closer to the ground, according to this article. Simple changes can reduce pet — and human — exposure, including vacuuming frequently and keeping potentially harmful substances such as medications in a safe place. Emergency veterinarian MeiMei Welker discusses the harms of slug bait, rodenticide and marijuana poisoning, while veterinarian Marli Lintner explains the uniquely sensitive nature of birds to home toxins, such as fumes from nonstick pans, due to their respiratory systems. The Oregonian (Portland) (3/1)

We think that our indoor pets are safe from predators, cars and disease, but our homes may be exposing our pets – and ourselves – to risks of a different realm.

Everything from the mattresses we sleep on to the motes of dust on the shelves may contain flame retardants or other chemicals, says Laurel Standley, an environmental consultant and author of “#ToxinsTweet: 140 Easy Tips to Reduce Your Family’s Exposure to Environmental Toxins.”

Standley began studying the effects of household toxins in pets after she, her mother and sister all lost pet cats to cancer.

She grieved the losses but Standley, who earned a doctoral degree in chemical oceanography, also grew concerned about what made them sick in the first place.

She worries about the prevalence of chemical flame retardants known as polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) found in many electronics, polyurethane foams, carpet padding, furniture, mattresses and other common household items.

“Each time we sit down on couches with foam cushions, dust particles fly out and fill our homes with dust containing flame retardant chemicals,” Standley says.

The products are being phased out after growing concern about their health effects. Last month, California Gov. Jerry Brown proposed new standards to reduce use of fire-retardant chemicals in furniture and baby products.

Some studies have associated hyperthyroidism in cats to the presence of PBDEs, including one published in February 2012 in the Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health.

“Proving cause and effect is extremely difficult,” Standley says, “But that’s not an excuse to not protect our pets.”

Plastics also contain harmful chemicals, including bisphenol A and phthalates that have been associated with reproductive and other endocrine effects.

Some of these chemicals have been restricted from children’s products (such as the Multnomah County ban on sippy cups and baby bottles made with BPA).

“The same chemicals haven’t been regulated for dog or cat toys,” says Jennifer Coleman, outreach director at Oregon Environmental Council. “They could still have an impact on endocrine systems.”

Like infants, pets are also smaller than adults, metabolize more quickly and are closer to the ground. This makes them more vulnerable to harm from many of the products humans use, she says.

One way to reduce their exposure is by replacing plastic food bowls with those made from stainless steel, ceramic or glass instead, Standley suggests.

The fish in those food dishes can also be toxic; fish living in polluted streams can accumulate toxic substances in their systems, she says.

Even the plastic liner of the cans they come in may leach BPA.

Pigments and dyes are also likely to contain chemicals, so look for toys without a lot of color or bleaching, Coleman advises.

“My strategy with my own dog is to do the simple things that make the most sense to me,” she says.

She avoids vinyl and PVC plastic and opts instead for those made from rubber or fabric, such as tug ropes and stuffing-free toys. Even tennis balls can be toxic; the ones designed for dogs often contain lead.

Of course, some toxins will make your pet sick sooner rather than later.

At DoveLewis, veterinarians see some toxins more often than others. Metaldehyde slug bait ingestion can cause major muscle tremors that can be fatal, as well as liver problems, says staff veterinarian Dr. MeiMei Welker.

The emergency animal hospital also sees a fair number of dogs sick from marijuana ingestion, while rodenticide toxicity – suspected in the death of a prize-winning Samoyed recently– is a near-daily occurrence.

There are several kinds of rat bait, but the anticoagulant rodenticides are slower to act and allow more of a window of time to administer the antidote.

If your pet consumes poison of some sort, it’s best to bring the packaging to the veterinarian so he or she can treat it most effectively.

Other common toxins seen at DoveLewis include raisins and grapes; the sugar substitute Xylitol; Easter lilies; chocolate; ibuprofen and naproxen (Aleve); and acetaminophen.

The canary in the kitchen

Birds are uniquely sensitive to their environment; there’s a reason the phrase “canary in a coal mine” became so popular.

They’re very sensitive to aerosols, and their respiratory systems are very different than ours, says Dr. Marli Lintner of the Avian Medical Center.

Bird lungs are designed to breathe in very clean, thin air, so breathing in some toxic inhalants can kill them immediately or make them very sick.

“Any sort of fume that makes your nose tingle or your eyes water is bad news for the birds,” Lintner says.

Fumes from nonstick pans pose one of the biggest threats to our feathered friends.

Once the pans overheat – usually when the temperature reaches above 530 degrees Farenheit – a gas called polytetrafluoroethylene is released, says Dr. Deborah Sheaffer, staff veterinarian at the Audubon Society of Portland.

They can die very quickly, so if you see your bird panting or having trouble breathing, you should take it to the veterinarian immediately.

Lead poses another common avian household hazard. Paint, stained glass window frames, curtain weights, costume jewelry; foil from champagne bottles; and old bird cages can all be toxic.

“When people have pet birds, they really need to be cognizant of what’s around them,” Sheaffer says. “They’re curious and inquisitive and they like to chew on things.”

This may be a lot of information for you to chew on too. Just remember that making your home safer for your pets makes it safer for humans as well.

How to help reduce toxins in your home

Vacuum frequently, preferably with a cleaner fitted with a HEPA filter, even on tile or wood floors (the goal is to not sweep dust up from the floor).

• Eliminate carpet wherever possible; the less carpet you have, the easier it is to control dust.
• Use rugs made of natural fabrics, such as cotton, wool or jute.
• Vacuum your couch regularly.
• Dust with a simple damp rag. Dry dusting can stir dust back into the air.
• Replace plastic food dishes with those made from stainless steel, ceramic or glass instead.
• If you have birds, avoid using nonstick pans whenever possible.
• Don’t expose birds to smoke or household aerosol products such as harsh cleaners, perfumes, hairspray, etc.
• Keep pets off the countertops and secure medications and other toxins safely in cupboards.
• If you’re afraid your pet ingested something he shouldn’t have, call the Pet Poison Helpline at 800-213-6680 (consultations cost $39).
• Don’t try to make your pet vomit; in some cases it could make the situation worse.

Resources:

• Audubon Society of Portland: audubonportland.org; 503-292-6855
• Avian Medical Center: avianmedicalcenter.net; 503- 635-5672
• DoveLewis: dovelewis.org; 503-228-7281
• Oregon Environmental Council: oeconline.org; 503-222-1963.
• (Download a copy of the Eco-Healthy Homes Checkup Kit here.)
• Laurel Standley: clear-current.com/; 650-245-5415
• Pet Poison Helpline: petpoisonhelpline.com; 800-213-6680

The most common toxicity cases at DoveLewis last year include:

• Total toxicity: 512
• Food toxicity (chocolate, grapes, salmon, Xylitol, raisins, Methylxanthine, alcohol, mushrooms): 121
• Plant toxicity: lilies (19) and marijuana (125) = 144
• Medication: 161 (includes NSAID, Albuterol, Cholecalciferol, Ibuprofen, Phenlpropanolamine, Acetaminophen, Ivermectin, Vitamin D, Metronidazole)
• Household: 71 (includes Anticoagulant Rodenticide, Metaldehyde, Bromethalin, Ethylene Glycol, Zinc Phosphide, OrganoPhosphate)
• Flea product toxicity: 15

—Monique Balas

Pet owners using rodenticides should be aware that cats and dogs are susceptible to the products’ poison, and veterinarians fear an increase in bromethalin toxicity in pets because of a ban on brodifacoum. Bromethalin is the active ingredient in Assault, Fastrac, Gladiator, Rampage, Talpirid and Vengeance, and it causes brain and spinal cord swelling characterized by weakness, incoordination, seizures, paralysis and death. There is no definitive diagnostic test and no antidote, note veterinarians Lee Pickett and Jennifer Coates. Supportive treatments are available but they are intensive, and animals that survive are often left with neurological deficits. PetMD.com/Fully Vetted blog (3/12), BerksPets.com (Reading, Pa.) (3/11)

The EPA provides a list of rodenticides that meet their safety standards and are approved for homeowner use on their website. Two, diaphacinone and chlorophacinone, are short-acting anti-coagulants similar to warfarin, which we touched upon yesterday. Any pet poisonings that are caused by these products should be comparatively simple to diagnose and treat, as long as pets are seen by a veterinarian in a timely manner.
The third active ingredient on the EPA list, bromethalin, is more concerning. Bromethalin is a neurotoxin. It causes fluid to build up within the brain. The swelling puts pressure on nerves, which inhibits their ability to transmit impulses. The symptoms that develop depend on the dose of the poison that an animal ingests. At relatively low exposures, symptoms include unsteadiness, weakness that starts in the hind end and can progress forward, muscle tremors, depression, and vomiting. When a dog gets into a large amount of bromethalin, the symptoms are more severe. Pets typically develop some combination of the following:

• muscle tremors
• seizures
• hyperexcitability
• unsteadiness
• paddling of the limbs
• high body temperature
• a loss of voice
• stiffness in the front legs

Testing for bromethalin exposure is not readily available so diagnosis is dependent on a history of exposure (if that is known) and a pet’s clinical signs.
With hindsight, I think I may have treated one dog for bromethalin poisoning, though I didn’t know it at the time. This dog belonged to an owner who was in town for a horse show. My patient was brought into the clinic with a weird panoply of symptoms, some of which fit with those mentioned above. We suspected that he had gotten into something at the horse show, but could never determine exactly what that might have been. My guess is that someone may have put out a bromethalin-containing rodenticide around the barns.
Decontamination (e.g., inducing vomiting and giving activated charcoal) is very helpful within a few hours of ingestion, but once symptoms develop treatment for bromethalin poisoning revolves around trying to decrease swelling within the brain, dealing with symptoms as they arise, and patient support. Since I didn’t have a definitive diagnosis for my patient, I was limited to symptomatic and supportive therapies. It was touch and go for awhile, but he was much improved after a few days of hospitalization, and a follow-up phone call to his home in California revealed that he had made a complete recovery.
He was lucky, if he had eaten more of the poison or had been brought in even a day later, I probably wouldn’t have been able to save him.
I hope bromethalin poisonings do not increase as a result of the ban on brodifacoum. Sending pets home with vitamin K after exposure to brodifacoum is far less stressful than hospitalizing them for severe neurologic dysfunction without a way to reach definitive diagnosis and no antidote in sight.