By: Jason Gerber

We all love sharing a bite with our furry best friends. Those pleading eyes and excited tail wags can make it hard to resist. But what if that tasty treat could land your pup in the vet’s office? Just like Scout from the heartwarming book “Scout Says Thank You… But, NO, NO, NO,” by Mama Gigi, our canine companions have sensitive tummies, and some human foods are downright dangerous for them.

This guide goes beyond the dreaded raisin (toxic due to unknown reasons) to explore a wider range of foods that deserve a firm “NO, NO, NO” from dog owners.

The “NO, NO, NO” List Explained:

Grapes and Raisins: These seemingly harmless fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and lack of appetite.

Chocolate: The culprit here is theobromine; which dogs metabolize much slower than humans. Dark chocolate poses the biggest threat, but even milk chocolate can be dangerous. Signs of chocolate poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, hyperactivity, and seizures. 

Onions, Garlic, and Leeks: These members of the allium family contain compounds that can damage red blood cells in dogs, leading to anemia. Symptoms include lethargy, weakness, pale gums, and dark-colored urine.

Macadamia Nuts: These nuts are particularly toxic to dogs, causing weakness, tremors, vomiting, and overheating.

Alcohol: Alcoholic beverages and foods containing alcohol can cause intoxication, respiratory depression, and even coma in dogs.

Cooked Bones: While raw bones can provide some benefits, cooked bones become brittle and can splinter, causing choking hazards and internal injuries.

Fatty Foods: Fatty foods like fried meats and processed snacks can lead to pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and dehydration.

Xylitol: This artificial sweetener, commonly found in sugar-free gum and candy, can cause a rapid drop in blood sugar levels in dogs, leading to seizures, liver failure, and even death.

Knowing the Signs of Dog Poisoning:

Early intervention is crucial when it comes to dog poisoning. Here are some general signs to watch out for:

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Loss of appetite
• Lethargy
• Weakness
• Abdominal pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Excessive drooling
• Disorientation
  

If you suspect your dog has ingested something toxic, take immediate action!

Call your veterinarian or animal poison control hotline immediately.

Do not induce vomiting unless instructed by a veterinarian. Try to identify the substance your dog may have ingested and take it with you to the vet. 

Safe and Delicious Alternatives:

Just because your dog can’t have the same treats as you doesn’t mean they have to miss out on the fun! Here are some delicious and safe alternatives you can share with your pup:

 Fruits and Vegetables: Apples (No Core), bananas, blueberries, carrots, green beans, pumpkin, and sweet potatoes are all healthy and dog-friendly options (be sure to remove pits and seeds).

 Lean Meats: Cooked chicken, turkey, or fish are excellent sources of protein for your dog.

 Homemade Dog Treats: There are endless recipes for dog treats online, using ingredients like peanut butter, pumpkin puree, and rolled oats.

 Commercial Dog Treats: Look for treats made with natural ingredients and avoid those with artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives.

 Remember: When in doubt, always err on the side of caution and consult your veterinarian before giving your dog any human food.

 Keeping Your Pup Safe:

By learning about toxic foods and keeping them out of reach, you can help prevent accidental poisoning and ensure your dog lives a long and healthy life. Here are some additional tips:

Store human food securely: Keep cabinets and countertops closed, and don’t leave food unattended on tables or counters.

Educate your family and friends: Let everyone who interacts with your dog know about foods to avoid.

Be mindful of garbage cans: Secure your trash can with a lid to prevent your dog from rummaging for forbidden snacks.

Consider using a “NO, NO, NO” list similar to Mama Gigi’s

Create a visual guide with pictures or symbols to easily identify safe and unsafe foods for your dog.

Just like Scout, our dogs rely on us to keep them safe. By educating ourselves and taking precautions, we can ensure that every treat time is a happy and healthy experience for our furry companions.

Published by: Martin De Juan