Animal Update: The Problems With Rodenticide

SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) — A rodenticide is a toxin that can kill a lot of different types of animals. It's usually interferes with their ability to clot blood and it's packaged in a way that is more attractive to rats and rodents.

Dr. Jennifer Scarlett with the San Francisco SPCA says the problem is the super toxic rodenticides are that they often end up in the food chain, as well as being one of the top toxins for pets.

"In July, California instituted a ban that prohibited the retail sale of some of the most toxic of these—second generation rodenticides; however, they are still available commercially and for agricultural use. So there's still a lot that needs to be done," Scarlett says.

Pets can be protected, firstly, by making sure that there are not rodenticides in the house or apartment building. They are usually stored black boxes and look like green pellets.

The next thing to do is to seek out a pest control company that is rodenticide-free by going to saferodentcontrol.org.

"If you think your dog or cat has got into a rodenticide, go seek veterinary care immediately," Scarlett says.