Here is a short reminder from our Vet Dr. Pinny of a list of food and beverage items that can prove toxic or detrimental to our four-legged companions:

Alcohol – Brain damage, coma, death

Avocado – Vomiting, diarrhea, dehydration

Bones – Mouth, throat, stomach, and intestinal lacerations

Raisins – Kidney failure

Grapes – Kidney failure

Onions – Anemia

Garlic – Anemia

Dairy – Vomiting and diarrhea

Walnuts – Damage to nervous system and muscles

Macadamia nuts – Damage to nervous system and muscles

Mushrooms – Circulatory failure, liver failure, death

Fatty foods – Pancreatitis, diabetes mellitus

Pork – Pancreatitis

Caffeine – Vomiting, diarrhea, heart disease, and damage to the nervous system

Chocolate – Heart and nervous system damage

OTC Pain medications – Stomach ulcers, liver failure, kidney failure

Sugar-free gum/mints/toothpaste (containing xylitol) – Seizures, liver damage, death

A new hazard that has appeared in the past year or so are those single-dose laundry detergent packs that are so popular  these days. These contain highly concentrated chemicals (ethanolamine, alcohol ethoxylate, benzenesulfonic acid) that can be toxic to pets (and to children). Signs of poisoning include nausea, vomiting, breathing difficulties, and stupor. Death can result if enough is ingested.

Be sure to pet-proof your kitchen, eating areas, and laundry room to ensure your pet doesn’t get into anything he shouldn’t.  And finally, keep these two numbers handy in case he does.

ASPCA Poison Control Hotline (888) 426-4435

National Pet Poison Helpline (800) 213-6680

Dr.Pinny- Mobile Petcare Clinic of Texas.