Foods That are Dangerous to Your Dog

Despite  the wise words of Cesar Milan telling us not to spoil our dogs and give them people foods, sometimes we just cant help ourselves.  Even the most well intentioned dog owners sometimes leave people foods out on display or not stored high enough, where their dogs can reach it. We have long known that certain foods are dangerous to our dogs, but as research continues, more foods are being discovered that could be fatal if ingested .

A substance called xyiltol which is found in artificial sweeteners and is used in sugar free products.  Some of the most common products to use Xylitol are trident sugar free gum, altoid mints, jell-o puddings and some brands of toothpaste. If your  dog ingests any product containing artificial sweeteners, it will lower its blood sugar to a dangerous level. you initially might not be aware as the symptoms which are, vomiting, loss of coordination and falling down,  are gradual. Do not try to induce vomiting,  take your dog to a veterinarian immediately.   

Here is a list of foods which are harmful and could be fatal to your dog.  

• Alcohol; Alcohol attacks the central nervous system, affecting brain function, in severe cases causing coma and death.
• Coffee; Contains methylxanthine  which  attacks the  central nervous system, and the heart , causing  cardiac arrest resulting in death.  
• Dairy products; Most dogs are lactose intolerant, dairy products will cause diarrhea and abdominal painGarlic and onions; these are particularly toxic because they break down the red blood cells, a process known as haemolytic  anemia. This can cause kidney failure.
• Macadamia nuts; its not why but these nuts can cause tremors and possible paralysis. Salt ; too much salt is harmful to us and to your pooch.
• Potatoes; When potatoes are harvested, they turn green as a reaction to light. This is to protect the potato and the process produces solanine. Solanine can be found in other root vegetables and tomatoes. It is barely harmful to humans but can cause paralysis and cardiac arrest in dogs.Avoid grapes and raisins.  The reason is not known, but they can cause renal failure.

You can get more information about foods and substances that are dangerous to your pets from the ASPCA web site. www.aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/