Sunday, January 03, 2010

Dog Lovers

This time of year it's good to be reminded of what can harm or even kill our dogs.

Apples/Apricots
This is a new one for me... I didn't know that apples, apricots, cherries, peaches and plums could harm my "Oscar" and "Scarlett" (they are Pugs and thank you for asking!) These five fruits contain a type of cyanide complex that can poison your dog if he/she ingests even the stems, seeds and leaves. This can cause dilated pupils, breathing problems, hyperventilation, shock, and apprehensiveness.
Chocolate
Chocolate is harmful for 3 reasons: the chemicals theobromine and caffeine, and its high fat content. theobromine and caffeine are nervous system stimulants. Stimulants are harmful to your dog if he eats too much. Noticeable effects of overdose include hyperactivity, restlessness, muscle twitches, increased urination and excessive panting. Seizures may occur in the most severe cases of overdose. These chemicals increase as the chocolate gets darker.
Coffee Grounds and Beans
You may have a dog that will eat anything, especially if they're enjoying a prohibited treat from a trash can. Coffee grounds and beans have caffeine and dogs that eat them can suffer from caffeine overdose.
Macadamia Nuts
Also known as the Australia Nut and the Queensland Nut, Macadamias are one of the mystery harmful foods when it comes to your dog. Although researchers still have not determined what causes the problem, as few as six nuts, running as high as 40 nuts, can cause severe overdose. The symptoms of your dog may have from macadamias include abdominal pain, vomiting, pale gums, stiffness, lameness, difficulty walking, tremors, weakness, and depression. The symptoms usually dissipate in 12 to 24 hours.
Nutmeg
Nutmeg is a popular spice at Christmas time, especially for egg nog and baking. High levels of nutmeg can kill your dog. Symptoms include seizures, tremors, central nervous system problems and death.
Onions and Garlic
Onions and garlic contain thiosulphate, which is harmful for dogs. If you feed him onions of garlic regularly, his red blood cells may weaken and literally fall apart. The thiosulphate can reach harmful, even deadly levels, if he eats too much of either food.

Posted By Martha Bethel At 7:32 AM • Comments (0) Trackbacks (0)