Who hasn’t given their furry companions table scraps? Or let their dogs clean up food that dropped on the floor? We know you mean well and your dog tells you how much they enjoyed the snack, but some human foods can be downright harmful to them.
Here’s a list of 6 foods that are bad for dogs, some of which may surprise you:
1. Xylitol
Xylitol is a sweetener found in some diet foods, chewing gum, toothpaste, baked goods, and candy. Ingesting it may cause your pet's blood glucose to drop and could even result in liver failure. If consumed, definitely call your emergency vet right away, but here are some early symptoms to watch out for: lethargy, nausea, and coordination issues.
2. Avocado
Avocados have something called persin in them. Small amounts are fine, but too much may cause vomiting or diarrhea. Persin is not only in the fruit, but the bark, leaves, and seed as well. So if you have them growing in your garden make sure the area is fenced off and dog proofed. If your dog is experiencing vomiting or diarrhea after eating some avocado call you will emergency vet services. It is even more urgent if your furry friend ate the seed, it could get lodged in their directive tract and cause an obstruction.
3. Onions and Garlic
Keep onion and garlic away from your dog, powdered or raw. Eating too much, even once, can lead to poisoning or anemia. Call your emergency vet as soon as possible and watch for signs of weakness, vomiting, and breathing problems.
4. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins can lead to kidney failure in dogs, even small amounts can make a dog sick. Vomiting over and over is an early sign to watch out for but also keep an eye out for lethargy and call your emergency vet right away.
5. Macadamia Nuts
Macadamia nuts can make dogs very sick with only a small amount. It takes only six roasted or raw macadamia nuts to cause issues. Look for symptoms such as weakness in his back legs, vomiting, high fever, and muscle shakes. If your dog ate chocolate covered macadamia nuts the symptoms could be worse and possibly even lead to death. In these cases, seek emergency veterinary services as soon as possible.
6. Fat Trimmings and Bones
Fat trimmed from meat, both cooked and raw, can lead to pancreatitis in dogs. And though it appears natural to give a dog a bone, they can choke on it. Bones can also block and splinter causing cuts on your pet's digestive system. If you notice vomiting, diarrhea, or change in behavior call your emergency vet right away.
Remember the above list is only a few types of human food that can be dangerous to your pup. The best thing to do is only feed your pets food that is specifically made for them.
However accidents still happen and we are always here for you if they do. If your dog eats anything listed above or another type of human food and you're concerned by their changed behavior, be sure to call us for emergency vet services right away.