People are always tempted to share their food with their dogs, a few bites of some foods might be all right once an a while. Even so, most dog experts suggest it is not a good idea to give your pets the same food that you eat.
Healthy and well-balanced food can be prepared for your dog using some human food, but it is important to know what foods to not feed your dog, as some foods can be poisonous and even deadly to dogs.
Below is a list of foods that should be off-limits for your dog:
Alcohol
Alcoholic drinks contain ethanol - a serious toxic chemical compound that can cause respiratory and central nervous system problems in dogs. Small amounts of ethanol can cause toxic effects. Toxicity can occur within 30-60 minutes.
Caffeine
Caffeine can be toxic and it can damage vital organs and the central nervous system.
Chocolate
Chocolate and cocoa has a chemical called theobromide. Theobromide can adversely affect the vital organs and central nervous system. Even a small amount of chocolate (1 or 2 ounces) can cause poisoning in dogs.
Fruit Pits & Fruit Seeds
Fruit pits and fruit seeds contain the toxin Cyanide that is toxic to dogs.
Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can cause damage to the kidneys, possibly resulting in death. Eating just 4-5 raisins or grapes can be poisonous to a 15 pound dog.
Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts, while not fatal, can make your dog ill. Eating just a few nuts can cause adverse effects in any dog. So it is a good idea not to give your dog any kind of nuts.
Onions
Onions can cause what is called Hemolytic Anemia also known as Heinz Body Anemia. It is a condition that can cause a destruction of red blood cells and kidney damage may follow. Toxicity problems can also occur from similar foods like garlic and chives.
Rotten or Moldy Foods
Moldy or rotten foods can cause a lot of problems for your dog, some more serious than others. Keep your dog away from trash cans as botulism from garbage can cause constipation, slow hear rate, paralysis and urine problems.
Xylitol
Xylitol is a relatively new sugar-free sweetener that can be found in some chewing gum and candy. In dogs it stimulates the pancreas causing it to secrete insulin, causing hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Xylitol ingestion also can cause severe liver damage.
If you think or know that your dog has consumed any of the above foods, look for some of these signs:
• abnormal heart rate/rhythm
• bloody urine
• collapse
• coma
• diarrhea
• heavy panting/breathing
• hyperactivity
• hypothermia (low body temperature)
• loss of appetite
• muscle tremors
• rapid heart rate
• seizures
• vomiting
• weakness and lethargy
If you suspect your dog has ingested a toxic food or your dog is exhibiting some of the above signs, immediately seek veterinary attention.
For your dog’s health needs, call Jacox Animal Clinic, 2732 East 15th Street, Tulsa, OK, 918-712-2750.
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