Kidney failure can result from zinc toxicity, and is a life-threatening complication. Zinc is present in many different items. Commonly ingested are zinc containing skin ointments, plumbing nuts, and game pieces from board games such as Monopoly. The most common source of zinc poisoning in my experience is pennies minted after 1982. These coins have a high zinc content, and result in severe illness.
Zinc poisoning can be fatal, and severe illness develops quickly.
Successful treatment depends on rapid removal of the zinc object from the gastrointestinal tract. Fortunately, such metal objects show up beautifully on radiographs, speeding diagnosis and treatment. Although metal poisonings with lead or zinc are not as common as other toxicities seen in dogs, they can be very serious. Dog owners should be vigilant in preventing exposure of their pets to such substances. When exposure occurs, rapid intervention increases the chance of successful treatment.