Dangerous Things to Keep Away From Your Dog
By HollywoodPet.net |
Sun, 10 Dec 2006
Your best friend may be your dog, but keeping your pet safe means knowing about hidden dangers that are everywhere. Every day items can pose a risk for your pet and from the most unlikely places. Dogs have a different body system than our own, so caution is the key to avoiding putting your pet at risk.
Chocolate.
Not enough can be said about the dangers of giving chocolate to dogs. Chemicals in cocoa beans are unable to be metabolized by dogs and can lead to terrible symptoms or even death. A chocolate bar can kill a small dog or give it seizures, hallucinations or at minimum a racing heartbeat. Never give chocolate to dogs. If your dog accidentally eats chocolate, treat it as a poisoning and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Antifreeze.
Antifreeze is extremely dangerous to dogs. Due to its sweet taste, dogs are unaware they are ingesting poison. Whether on their fur or on the floor, small amounts licked up by your dog can kill your pet. Keep these and other chemicals locked up. Contact your veterinarian if your dog is exposed to antifreeze.
Onions and Garlic.
Chemicals in onions and garlic can cause permanent illness. Puppies are especially vulnerable and risk death if exposed. Cooking onions or garlic does not reduce the danger to your pet.
Nuts.
Nuts should not be given to your pet, especially Macadamia nuts. The high phosphorous content can lead to bladder stones. Avoid nuts entirely.
Potatoes.
This is a little know toxin to dogs. The green sprouts from a potato that has been exposed to the sun, and the green skin of an unripe potato are toxic to dogs. This is a rare dog poisoning because a well kept, ripe potato poses no threat to your pet.
Artificial Sweeteners.
Artificial sweetener in packets, sugarless gum, and candies can poison your dog. When ingested, your dog can go into seizures within minutes. Keep this common item high up in cabinets and clean up any spills immediately. If your dog ingests any artificial sweetener, treat it as a poisoning and contact your veterinarian immediately.
Grapes and Raisins
This is another widely unknown form of poisoning of dogs. Grapes and raisins should not be given to dogs in any quantity. It can't be stressed enough that no grapes or raisins should be given to dogs. The reaction from your dog can lead to kidney failure and death. Don't take chances, many dogs die from ingesting these foods. Contact your veterinarian immediately if your dog ingests these foods.
Keeping your dog safe is about awareness. Some common items are a danger to pets. With a little bit of knowledge your favorite pet will stay happy and healthy.
