Dog Poisons And Common Foods Owners Need To Know About
There are hundreds of dogs every year that die from being fed common foods for humans that are actually poisons for dogs. Often these poisons result in serious dog health issues that have long term neurological or metabolic consequences to the dog. In many cases the owner's didn't realize the potential hazards of feeding what appeared to be harmless foods to their dogs until the dog become ill or even died from consuming the food.
To best manage dog health issues and foods it is important to understand what poisons may be present in your kitchen or pantry right now. Even though your dog may not have direct access, owners need to know what not to give their dog, even in small amounts as a treat or an additive in food. These common foods that are poisons are the reason that table scraps are so harmful to dogs since these potential toxins can be present in small amounts, gradually causing dog health problems.
The following is a partial list of the most common foods that are poisons or toxins to dogs:
- Grapes and Raisins
The exact toxin in grapes or raisins that causes the reaction is not known, but dogs that get into larger amounts of these foods will suffer kidney failure and death if not treated. The kidney will be permanently damaged which can lead to ongoing health issues if enough of the product is consumed. - Alcoholic beverages
While not considered foods, alcoholic beverages can cause your dog to go into a coma and can even cause poisoning and death if consumed in large enough quantities based on the size of the dog. A toy dog that only weighs 6 pounds doesn't need to consume very much alcohol to become intoxicated and possibly have a serious reaction. Often dogs are very attracted to beer and the sodas used in mixed drinks and they simply help themselves when the owner is not looking. - Artificial Sweeteners
In large enough amounts these foods or food supplements have even proven to be poisons for humans, so they certainly will affect a dog's health. Symptoms typically include seizures and neurological problems that develop after consuming candies or processed foods containing artificial sweeteners. - Coffee, Tea, Chocolate, Cola
These products all contain caffeine as well as theobromine and/or theophylline. Ingestion of caffeine products results in seizures and neurological problems, many which are permanent. Like with most of the food poisons, the exact amount that is problematic will depend on the dog's size, health and sensitivity to the compound or toxin. - Garlic and Onions
These foods contain sulfoxides and disulfides which are poisons to dogs, cats and other pets. Some dogs have almost no reaction, however others will become severely anemic as sulfoxides and disulfides can cause red blood cells to rupture.
Foods that can become poisons to your dog are found in all kitchens. Being a responsible pet owner and ensuring your dog's health includes knowing what foods may be a problem and avoiding any of these poisons getting into your dog's food in his or her reach.
