I had a recent scare with our dog
Jake which reminded me of a time when I was very naive about what was, and wasn’t,
toxic to dogs. Jake is a canine trash can. If he can eat it he will eat
it. Not even to our approval, just because that’s what he does. He eats. Hydrogen
peroxide induced vomiting has become the main staple in my first aid routine.
Have you ever had a dog like that? That just eats everything? Now, a little disclaimer:
we are very responsible pet owners and do not encourage or condone this
behavior. Sometimes animals just act like, well….animals!
A few days ago Jake heard the
sound of commotion in the kitchen and decided to come check things out. Before
we even realized it, the bag of grapes that was one second ago on the kitchen
counter, was now on the floor. I’m sure you can imagine what happened. Jake
grabbed the bag and inhaled the grapes. I am so thankful that I knew how toxic
and downright deadly grapes (and raisins) are to dogs (and cats)! I immediately
administered hydrogen peroxide and within ten minutes or so Jake threw up his
loot. Did you know that grapes and raisins are toxic to dogs and cats? If not,
pay close attention!
This is what PetMD has to say
about the matter:
“Grape and raisin (dried grapes) toxicity is well
documented in dogs. Although the exact substance that causes the toxic reaction
is not yet known, it has been shown that even small amounts of grapes or
raisins can prove to be fatally toxic for a dog. Dogs of any age, breed, or
gender may be affected.”
Again, this does not just apply to dogs. If you
have animals you must be very careful to ensure that they do not have any opportunity
to ingest this yummy but deadly fruit. After Jake’s last counter diving episode,
my husband and I decided that the consequences of our dog’s potential grape and
raisin eating just weren’t worth it and they will no longer be on the grocery
list. Yes, we love our pets that
much.
Snack on!
Michelle Brockman
Jonah’s Place, Inc.
Reference:
PetMD
http://www.petmd.com/dog/emergency/digestive/e_dg_grape_raisin_toxicity#.UkOXRD95GSo