The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
Submitted by Flin Flon, Creighton and Area SPCA Did you know that there are many foods that are toxic to dogs? Dog experts say that you shouldn't feed your dog any table scraps because it could lead to toxicity, obesity, and poor health. Well-balanced diets can come from human food, but you have to make sure you are using the right foods. Grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs. Grapes and raisins can cause damage to the kidneys, this could result in death. Even just feeding your dog four to five grapes or raisins can be poisonous. Some signs of toxicity are vomiting, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The signs of toxicity can occur within hours of consumption. Onions can also be toxic to your dog. Onions can cause Heinz body anemia. This is a condition that destructs your dog`s red blood cells. Kidney damage may happen as well. Garlic and chives may also affect your dog. Avoid feeding you dog any foods that have been cooked with onions. Always be sure to check the ingredients. Other signs of poisoning would be pale gums, rapid heart rate, weakness, vomiting and bloody urine. Chocolate is a toxic food. It contains theobromide, a chemical that can affect your dog's heart, lungs, kidney, and central nervous system. Pure baking chocolate is the most harmful to your dog. A 20-pound dog can be harmed by two ounces of baking chocolate. Cocoa bean can also be harmful. Some signs of toxicity include excitement, seizures, vomiting, abnormal heart rate, hypothermia, and coma. Any foods that are high in fat, sugar, or sodium are also harmful to your dog. It is very important that you always make sure what you're feeding your dog is safe for them. If you want to feed your dog homemade food make sure you talk to your vet. You can also talk to a nutritionist for diet recommendations. _ Written by Taylor Purvis, SPCA summer student
