March is Pet Poison Prevention Month, so there's no better time to educate yourself about the dangers of pet poisoning and how to protect your furry friends. Here are five essential tips for pet poison prevention:

1) Keep Harmful Substances out Of Reach

Lots of household products may seem harmless to us, but they can be extremely toxic to our pets. Store medications, household cleaners, insecticides, and other hazardous substances well out of reach of prying paws.

2) Be Aware of Toxic Foods

You've probably heard that chocolate is toxic to cats and dogs, but did you know that grapes and raisins can also lead to poisoning? Onions, garlic, avocados, and xylitol (a sweetener found in sugar-free gums, candies, and baked goods) are also hazardous to pets. Protect your pets by keeping food items stored in a secure place and disposing of food scraps and garbage safely.

3) Identify Poisonous Plants

Plants can add beauty and life to your home, but some common house plants such as lilies, azaleas, daffodils, and tulips are toxic to pets if ingested. Learn which plants can be harmful and make sure that you keep them out of reach or in areas where your pets can't access them.

4) Don't Use Rodenticides

The symptoms of rodenticide poisoning are extremely serious and can even be fatal if left untreated. Instead of rat or mouse poison, opt for humane traps, or contact a professional to safely remove rodents from your home.

5) Know the Signs of Pet Poisoning

If you suspect that your pet may have ingested something toxic, look out for signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, seizures, and lethargy. If you see any of these signs in your pet, act fast and contact your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.