Antifreeze containing ethylene has a sweet taste that attracts animals, but is deadly if consumed in even small quantities. Lock antifreeze away from the little ones. The good news is that antifreeze with propylene instead of ethylene is safe for animals if ingested in small amounts.

Plants

While plants enhance our lives and homes, they can cause harmful effects in animals. Poisonous plants produce a variety of toxic substances and cause reactions ranging from mild nausea to death. Certain animal species may have a vulnerability to a potentially poisonous plant.

The only greenery good for cats is "kitty grass" — small containers of oatgrass and wheatgrass found at pet stores. Grow a little patch of kitty grass to entertain your feline. Plants posing problems include oleander, sago palm, Easter lily, daffodil, castor bean, parts of the yew plant, philodendron, dieffenbachia, cyclamen, corn-stalk plants, bird of paradise and azaleas.

The humane society has posted a list of some common Hawai'i plants harmful to pets at www.hawaiianhumane.org in Pet Care & Advice.

Fleas and ticks

Prescription flea and tick products such as Advantage, Frontline, Top Spot and Revolution are much safer and more effective than their nonprescription counterparts.

In fact, some nonprescription flea and tick products for dogs contain chemicals poisonous to children, cats, rodents and fish. People and pets can be at risk by rubbing against a dog treated with some products.

Fumes

Birds are highly sensitive to strong odors and fumes such as auto exhaust, glue, paint, hair spray, cigarette smoke, perfume and bug bombs.

In particular, fumes from no-stick cooking surfaces and self-cleaning ovens can be deadly. Always be cautious when using any pump or aerosol spray around your feathered friends.

'People food' that is a danger to pets

Common foods such as baking chocolate, raisins, onions, garlic, coffee and yeast dough can cause serious problems if eaten by your pets. Make sure moldy or spoiled foods are out of their reach, too.

Toad poisoning

Those big toads appearing after dark can be dangerous. Children should be warned not to touch the bufo toads. Curious puppies and playful dogs are at the greatest risk. If your pet has chomped a bufo toad, call your veterinarian immediately. Quickly wash the animal's mouth out with a strong stream of water and wipe the teeth and gums with a towel.

Get help

It's surprising how many common household items pose threats to animal companions. Even some items specifically meant for pets could cause health problems.

The best preventive is common sense and to take the same precautions you would with a child. A quick response if your pet has been exposed to a toxin is critical. Add your veterinarian's phone number to your speed-dial, along with the National Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

To receive the list of harmful plants and a guide to first aid for pet emergencies by mail, call the humane society at 946-2187, ext. 223.

ADOPTABLES

Ghanga

Tag No. 53321. This adorable tortoise-shell cat has a beautiful coat of brown, tan, black and white. A playful female about 3 years old, Ghanga is already litter-trained, spayed and up to date on her vaccinations. She loves any toy that moves.

Howie

Tag No. 53258. Wowie — check out Howie. This blue-eyed husky/shepherd mix is just one year old, so he's still a teenager. Loaded with energy, Howie craves positive reinforcement training to bond with his new family.