Foods We Eat That Can Harm our Dogs

 

As humans, we basically know what is safe for us to eat and drink. However, it’s easy to forget that our dogs cannot share all of our food. Some foods are simply unhealthy, while others can be highly Harmful.

The kitchen can be a virtual playground for your dog’s nose and taste buds. Most dogs love food and especially yearn for “people food”. Dog experts have discouraged the feeding of table scraps to dogs for years because of the potentials for toxicity, obesity and general poor health. If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic food, seek veterinary attention immediately.

Grapes and Raisins can cause irreversible damage to the kidneys, possible resulting in death. Ingesting as few as 4-5 grapes or raisins can be poisonous to a 20 pound dog, though the exact toxic dose is not established. Signs of toxicity include vomiting, loss of appetite, diarrhea, abdominal pain, decreased urine production, weakness and drunken gait. Treatment involves aggressive supportive care – particularly fluid therapy and medications. Onions can cause a form of hemolytic anemia called Heinz body anemia, a condition that causes the destruction of red blood cells. It is not clear what quantity of onions is poisonous, but the effects can be cumulative. Poisoning can result from raw, cooked and dehydrated forms. Blood transfusions and/or oxygen administration may be necessary, followed by specific fluid therapy. Chocolate and cocoa contain a chemical called theobromide that can adversely affect the heart, lungs, kidney and central nervous system. Signs include excitement, tremors, seizures, vomiting, diarrhea, abnormal heart rate/rhythm, drunken gait, hyperthermia and coma. Treatment includes administration of activated charcoal and aggressive supportive care with fluid therapy and medications. Caffeine is quite similar to the toxic chemical in chocolate. It can damage the heart, lungs, kidney and central nervous system. These can be followed by panting, weakness, drunken gait increased heart rate, muscle tremors and convulsions. Treatment includes administration of activated charcoal and supportive care with fluid therapy and medications. Alcoholic beverages contain ethanol – a seriously toxic chemical compound that causes central nervous system and respiratory depression. Ethanol is rapidly absorbed into the system, so it is important to seek medical attention quickly. Treatment includes aggressive supportive care with fluid therapy and medications. Moldy or rotten foods can cause many problems for your dog, some more serious than others. Any food that seems “past its prime” should be kept out reach. Be especially careful to keep your dog away from trash cans. 

Like people, too much junk food can cause poor condition and decreased energy. Remember that your dog is smaller than you and may be sensitive.  If you want to feed homemade food, seek advice from your vet. You may wish to meet with a nutritionist for diet recommendations. The next time your companion gives you the puppy-dog eyes while you are enjoying that onion-laden dinner, remember that he cannot have the leftovers. Try giving him a carrot or some plain, lean meat instead.

Wireless Dog Fence and Wireless Fences with FREE SHIPPING on the Petsafe Wireless Fence.