Are you among the 7.1% of adults who uses a hearing aid and 66% of U.S. households who own a pet? If so, it’s important that you take measures to ensure your pets don’t get ahold of your hearing devices. Not only is it a huge expense and inconvenience, but if your pet ingests a battery, it can pose a serious threat to their health and safety. In this post, we review how to keep both your hearing aids and furry friends safe, whether you adopted them from the San Francisco SPCA or elsewhere.
Store Your Hearing Aids Properly
When you’re not wearing your hearing aids, store them somewhere both safe and consistent. For safety, put them in a storage case, then place it somewhere where your pet cannot access it. For example, you can put it somewhere high up where they cannot reach it or in a drawer that remains closed. (But do not choose a hot location like a windowsill or a humid location like your bathroom.) Consistency is important so you’ll know right away if they go missing.
Store Your Batteries Properly
Batteries, both new and old, should be stored in containers with secure lids. Be sure to label each container clearly so you’re not putting used batteries in your hearing aids by accident.
To dispose of used batteries, take them to a recycling center. Never dispose of them in the trash because your pet can rummage through it and consume the batteries, which are still extremely hazardous even if they no longer have power.
Look for the Signs of Battery Ingestion
If you can’t find your hearing aids, look for the signs of ingestion, which include:
- They won’t eat or drink, or they try but can’t swallow.
- They’re vomiting or drooling.
- Their tongue is red, or their skin is gray.
- They’re whimpering as if in pain.
Note that these signs may not show up until 12 hours after they’ve ingested a battery.
Do This if Your Pet Ingests a Battery
Immediately after you notice the signs of ingestion, take your pet to an emergency veterinarian clinic. Tell the vet what kind of batteries they ingested so they know how to proceed.
For more information about keeping your hearing aids away from your pet or to schedule an appointment with a hearing aid expert, call San Francisco Audiology today.