by Luella May

As the situation in Fukushima has gone from bad to worse and radioactive contamination has been detected in 15 more US states, including very small amounts in milk, serious health concerns have been raised for those of us living in the United States and elsewhere outside Japan. While much of the public tried to stock up on dwindling potassium iodide and follow plentiful advice on other measures to take in the event of dangerous fallout levels, many have been voicing another concern: What can be done to protect our pets? The good news is that we can also take several measures to protect our beloved pets as well as ourselves.

Following are some protective and restorative measures which can be used for our pets:

Potassium iodide binds to radioactive iodine and is cleared from the body in 24 to 72 hours. In the event of a nuclear radiation fallout emergency, pets with no known iodine allergies can be given a recommended dosage according to weight:

*Over 150 pounds - 130 mg.
*Less than 150 pounds - 65 mg.
*25 to 30 pounds - 32 mg.
*9 pounds or less - 16 mg.

It is important to note that while there have been no studies on administering large doses, potassium iodide in limited doses has been found to be well tolerated by most animals.

Activated charcoal is an adsorbent, meaning that it attracts toxins, and it is a good antidote for radiation. The ASPCA Poison Control Center recommends activated charcoal as the primary treatment for many poisons. Recommended doses range from 0.5 to 2 grams of granules per pound of weight repeated every 8 hours. Note: Do not give charcoal to animals with known allergies to charcoal. Temporary side effects may include vomiting, diarrhea, constipation and black stools may result.

Bentonite clay is absorbs heavy metals, toxic wastes and radiation and helps eliminate them from the body.

As immune systems are weakened by radiation exposure, colloidal silver can be placed in the pet’s water to fortify the immune system and prevent the onset of infections.

Baking soda taken orally can protect the kidneys and diminish the severity of the changes caused by uranium.

N-Acetyl Cysteine helps to heal tissues damaged by radiation.

Studies have shown that echinacea not only prevents radiation damage, but also restores the body after exposure.

The vitamin A and D contained in cod liver oil help in healing and membrane maintenance. The omega 3’s help reduce inflammation and support the immune system.

Wheatgrass, which is rich in chlorophyll increases resistance to radiation.

Give your pet an organic multivitamin/multimineral supplement

During a nuclear emergency, if evacuation is not possible, the pet should be kept sheltered until the initial fallout has passed. Even then, spray the outside area with water before the pet ventures out.

Make sure the pet has all the necessary essentials while it is in the shelter – plenty of food and water, favorite toys to pass the time, and a designated spot for potty facilities. You may want to keep plastic bags handy to pick up any waste. Pets should not go outside during a radiation emergency.

The safest location during a fallout emergency is the basement. The second safest is a centrally located room. The area should ideally have no windows, or as few windows as possible. Windows, doors, and vents should be covered with duct tape and plastic sheeting so that radiation does not slip in the cracks. Turn off air conditioners, fans and heating units and make sure to close or close off any source that brings air in from the outside such as fireplace dampers.

Lastly, if your evacuation plans include a public shelter, it is important to note that these shelters may not accept pets.

Sources:

http://www.mbah.state.ms.us/emergency_programs/ki_vets.htm
http://www.aaoobfoods.com/nbcinfo.htm#pets?
http://www.showdog-magazine.com/medical/echinacea.htm
http://www.tbyil.com/Radiation_Contamination.htm

See also:

Protective and Restorative Measures to Take in the Event of Radiation Contamination