1) Zinc Phosphide is a common component of some rodenticides for use in the home and for commercial uses as well. In addition, Aluminum phosphide is used as an insecticide for fumigating animal feed and grains.

2) These products are often used for control of moles, gophers and prairie dogs. The phosphide compound releases phosphine gas into the stomach. The animal experiences respiratory distress and asphyxiation.

3) Trade names for products containing zinc phosphide include Arrex, Commando, Dexol, Kilrat, GophaRid, Phosvin, Ridall, Ratol and Sweeney’s Poison Peanuts.

4) Both Zinc and Aluminum phosphide can release phosphine gas which is highly toxic to people and animals. Phosphine gas can reach toxic levels before an odor is noticed.

5) Dosages for toxic levels are very small. A gram of two percent bait can be lethal to most animals. A tablespoon of pellets can produce toxicity in a 20 pound dog.

6) Animals with phosphine poisoning will exhibits signs of nausea, loss of appetite, vomiting (which might be bloody), abdominal pain, respiratory distress, tonic seizures, and even difficulty walking. These symptoms usually occur quickly (15 minutes to four hours after ingestion).

7) Clinical signs in people include dizziness, nausea, vomiting, weakness, shortness of breath and even convulsions in higher doses.

8) If a pet ingests one of these poisons and then vomits, move the pet and people away from the area. Flush the area with liberal amounts of water and remain upwind (if outdoors).

9) Phosphine gas is heavier than air and will sink to ground level. Avoid leaning over to help the pet in areas where the pet has vomited.

10) If the vomiting happens indoors, ventilate the area by opening windows and doors and place a fan at floor level. Contact the local fire department and seek medical attention if you are exposed to stomach contents or vomit.

11) Phosphine gas is readily inactivated by contact with soil and water. If at all possible, induced vomiting should happen outdoors and the area can be doused liberally with water. Phosphine is not thought to enter the food chain.

12) Be sure to store all rodent baits and poisons away from the reach of pets and children.

13) Veterinarians and veterinary staff can be a high risk for phosphine gas toxicity. Pet owners should inform veterinarians of the brand name and/or type of rodent poison that the pet may have ingested.

Sara Lash, DVM

Healthy Pets Mobile Vet

www.drsaralash.com

919-329-7387