Protecting Our Fur-babies

 Chocolate contains the toxins caffeine and theobromine which cause vomiting and diarrhea on the mild end of the toxicity range, and seizures and heart arrhythmias and even death on the severe end. 

If ingested in large enough amounts, alcohol can be toxic to our pets and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, decreased coordination, difficulties breathing, tremors.  

The skin and leaves of the avocado contain pepsin which can be toxic to animals, particularly birds. While cats and dogs aren't as susceptible as other animals it is still something to be aware of. Avocados are also high in fat and can contribute to pancreatitis in dogs 

 If ingested in large enough amounts can be fatal. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, heart palpitations.  

 If ingested in large enough amounts can be fatal. Symptoms of caffeine poisoning include, vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, tremors, rapid breathing, heart palpitations.  

Onions contain thiosulphate which is toxic dogs. Ingestion of this food causes a condition known as  Haemolytic (or hemolytic) anemia  which is where red blood cells throughout the body burst. This condition can be fatal. 

 Macadamias are toxic to dogs. It is unknown which part of the macadamia causes poisoning. Symptoms include, lethargy, vomiting, tremors, abdominal pain, joint stiffness and pale gums. 

 Grapes, raisins, sultanas and currants contain a toxin that can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure. It doesn't take many for dogs to become critically ill. Symptoms include, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, excessive urination, lethargy, abdominal pain, tremors and seizures. By the time clinical signs begin, the pet is already experiencing kidney failure. 

 While garlic and chives ingested in small amounts shouldn't cause any problems. If ingested in large quantities they can cause gastrointestinal irritation and red blood cell damage. 

Too much salt ingested can cause pups to suffer from excessive thirst and urination, and potentially sodium ion poisoning. Symptoms from consuming a large amount include, depression, diarrhea, elevated body temperature, seizures, tremors and vomiting. 

 Xylitol is a sweetener found in an alarming amount of foods, including sweets and treats, chewing gum and peanut butter. It is toxic to our pets and can cause liver failure and seizures. So, if you are planning on treating your pet with a delicious snack, check the label to ensure products don't contain xylitol. 

 Wild mushrooms are highly dangerous for dogs and can be fatal. Treat any wild mushroom ingestion as a medical emergency. While store-bought edible mushrooms are safe if cooked plain, toxic wild species (like Amanita or false morels) can cause severe liver failure, neurological damage, seizures, and death