As the festive season is upon us, many people will start to indulge in foods and meals they might not normally be eating, many of those might not be safe for dogs
What you need to know about keeping your dogs safe from toxic foods that could kill them this festive season
- Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical that dogs process too slowly, leading to a toxic build-up in their system. Ingestion can cause severe symptoms ranging from vomiting and diarrhoea to dangerous seizures and even death, with darker chocolate posing the highest risk.
- Grapes and dried fruits are found in many festive foods like mince pies and Christmas pudding, grapes, raisins, sultanas, and currants are extremely toxic to dogs. Even a small amount of these fruits can trigger acute kidney failure and potentially be fatal to your pet.
- Beyond the inherent danger of dried fruit, mince pies may contain high levels of fat and sugar, which can cause severe stomach upset. If you suspect your dog has eaten a mince pie, it is crucial to contact a vet immediately for advice, regardless of whether they show symptoms.
- Dog owners must be extremely vigilant about Xylitol, a common artificial sweetener often found in sugar-free baked goods and sweets. Xylitol is highly toxic to canines because it causes a sudden and potentially deadly drop in blood sugar, known as hypoglycemia, and can lead to liver failure.
- Blue cheese is hazardous to dogs because it contains a fungus that produces a neurotoxin called roquefortine C. Consumption can lead to severe issues like vomiting, diarrhoea, tremors, and even seizures in sensitive animals.
- All parts of the avocado—the skin, flesh, and pit—contain a fungicidal toxin called persin that can cause vomiting and diarrhoea in dogs. Furthermore, the high fat content poses a risk of serious pancreatitis, and the large pit is a significant choking or obstruction hazard.
- Members of the Allium family, including garlic, onion, and leeks, are toxic to dogs whether they are consumed raw or cooked, such as in holiday stuffing. Ingestion can damage a dog’s red blood cells, causing symptoms like vomiting and lethargy, and potentially leading to anaemia after a few days.
- READ THE FULL STORY: Dog trainer shares fatal festive foods to dogs – and it’s not just chocolate
