Sharing Is Not Always Caring

October is National Pet Safety and Prevention Month. With the holidays coming up, it may be tempting to allow your pets to have their own Thanksgiving "feast", but it is always important to keep in mind that just because something is tasty to us, doesn't mean that it's safe for your dogs. While there are some dog safe table scraps they can enjoy, the following should definitely be avoided for dogs and cats.

-Chocolate

Most of us already know this, but this may be news to some new pet parents. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine which dogs and cats can not metabolize as easily as us. Theobromine is a substance similar to caffeine which can cause heart arrhythmia, vomiting, diarrhea, nervous system problems (seizures, muscle stiffness uncoordinated movement, etc) and in severe cases, death. Chocolate is an amazing treat for us humans, but keep it far, far away from the dogs.

-Avocado

Delicious to humans, dangerous to dogs. Different parts of the avocado contain different levels of a fungicidal toxin called persin which is dangerous to dogs. The pit itself can cause a blockage and gastrointestinal issues. In addition, the high fat content of it can cause acute pancreatitis. Avocado poisoning can cause a fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.

-Onions and garlic

Onions and garlic contain an ingredient called thiosuphate. When dogs and cats are exposed to this, it can cause hemolytic anemia. This is a very serious condition where the red blood cells get destroyed and can cause anemia, lethargy, vomiting.

Other Foods: This is not an all inclusive list. It is meant to be a basic list of foods commonly found in most households that may be easily accessible to dogs.

-Additional foods you'll want to avoid giving to your dog are "sugar-free"(Xylitol containing) foods, raw potatoes, turkey skin, alcohol, grapes, raisins and nutmeg. If you do believe your dog has consumed any of the food listed, please immediately call the Animal Poison Control line at (888) 426-4435 as well as your pet's veterinarian!