Zinc and other heavy metal toxicities cause haemolytic anaemia and organ damage in dogs, often from swallowing coins, ointments, or galvanised metal objects.
Zinc toxicity causes severe suffering from rapidly progressing haemolytic anaemia, organ damage, and multi-system failure without prompt treatment. The period between ingestion and clinical illness provides an opportunity for intervention before severe disease develops. Rapid removal of the ingested source and supportive care significantly improve welfare outcomes. Dogs that survive severe toxicity require intensive nursing care during recovery.