Keep your Dog Safe this Spring
Here are some tips for things to look out for this Spring to keep your dog safe, there are Easter hazards from chocolate as well as things to look for when you are out and about.
CHOCOLATE
Dark chocolate is much more of a concern because it contains higher the bromine levels. This is the main stimulant found in chocolate that causes a range of symptoms. The
severity of chocolate toxicity is based on how much they have eaten, how dark the chocolate is, and how much they weigh. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity include: tummy upset such as vomiting and/or diarrhoea, restlessness, high body temperature, twitching/tremors, and seizures. Left untreated the outcome could be fatal.
If you aren’t sure type ‘chocolate toxicity calculator’ into Google search and you will have on your screen an easy-to-follow set of questions. Answer these questions and if your dog has eaten chocolate this tool will help you establish quickly if it is a concerning amount and whether they require veterinary intervention.
RAISINS, CURRANTS AND SULTANAS
It is known which dogs suffer from eating these foods but from studies it is based on the levels of tartaric acid, which varies according to the ripeness and growing conditions of the grape, and sensitivity of the dog. Some dogs will develop kidney failure after ingestion of just one or two. Others will be unaffected after eating a number. You cannot leave this one to chance. Unlike chocolate, the amount eaten and weight of the dog do not seem to be relevant; it is an unknown.
XYLITOL
Also known as birch sugar, it is a popular sugar-free substitute, particularly common in diabetic chocolate and cake. With Easter being a time for all to indulge these food items it may be more readily available for our dogs to access. A small amount can be fatal. This toxin causes low blood sugar in our dogs if ingested and symptoms can manifest within 30 minutes post ingestion. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect or notice any symptoms, and during travel have honey to hand. If your dog becomes twitchy or has a fit, pop some honey on their gums to increase sugar levels and temporarily counteract this toxin.
BULBS
Spring is coming but we need to be vigilant. Daffodils, the bulbs, leaves, and flowers can cause toxicity in dogs. The bulb is the major culprit, and a variety of symptoms can be seen if eaten, including vomiting and/or diarrhoea, excessive drooling, respiratory problems and seizures. Be wary of dogs digging in the garden and think carefully about what you plant. Seek immediate veterinary attention if you think your dog has had access to any bulbs. Toxins generally cause alarming symptoms within and quickly. Being vigilant, seeking advice or using tools like the chocolate toxicity calculator will help you get prompt treatment. A key to dog health is retracing your steps and gaining a history to work out what they may have come into contact with.
Resources such as The Animal Poison Line are useful if your dog has consumed anything you may be concerned about. They are your first port of call and will liaise with your vet and help to identify the potential toxin, in many cases leading to successful treatment.
Check our late availability for breaks this Spring.
Source: Dog Friendly Magazine Number 92 www.dogfriendly.co.uk