As the holidays approach, it’s important to be mindful of the foods that can be harmful—even toxic—to dogs. Being aware of these dangers will help keep your pup safe and healthy.
Here are some common foods to avoid for dogs:
Chocolate: One of the most dangerous foods for dogs, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are toxic. Dark chocolate and unsweetened baking chocolate are the most hazardous, but even milk chocolate can make your dog sick.
Candy and Sugar-Free Treats: Candies, especially those containing xylitol (a common sugar substitute), are highly toxic to dogs. Xylitol can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar, leading to serious health risks.
Grapes and Raisins: Often found in baked goods and snacks, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs, even in small amounts.
Fatty Foods: Rich, fatty foods like turkey skin and buttery sides may be tempting to share, but they can lead to pancreatitis.
Onions and Garlic: These common ingredients in holiday dishes like stuffing and gravies contain compounds that can damage a dog’s red blood cells, potentially leading to anemia.
Alcohol: Even small amounts of alcohol are toxic to dogs. Dogs are much more sensitive to alcohol than humans, and ingestion can result in serious health problems.
Cooked Bones: Cooked bones, particularly from meats like turkey or ham, can splinter easily, posing a choking hazard or causing serious damage to your dog’s digestive tract.
Safety Tips for Your Dog During Celebrations
Keep an eye on the food: Make sure all dishes are out of reach. Consider keeping your dog in a separate room while you prepare and serve meals.
Educate guests: Let family and friends know not to feed your dog any human food, no matter how cute or well-behaved they may be during mealtime.
Prepare dog-friendly treats: If you want your pup to join in on the celebrations, make some dog-safe treats to keep them satisfied.
Know the signs of toxicity: Be aware of symptoms of toxicity in dogs, such as vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, rapid heart rate, or lethargy. If you suspect your dog has consumed something toxic, contact your veterinarian immediately.
These festive times are filled with family, fun, and celebration, and by taking these precautions, you can ensure that your dog stays safe and healthy throughout the season.
For a more comprehensive list of foods to avoid, visit the Humane Society’s website.
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