Pet Expert Warns Americans Against These Common Diet Foods That Are Deadly for Dogs – Including Grapes and Nuts
TAMPA (BLOOM) – Advice by a pet expert has brought to light a crucial issue for dog owners. As Americans increasingly turn to healthier diets, including diet-friendly foods like grapes, raisins, and nuts, they might be unaware of the hidden dangers these foods pose to their canine companions.
According to a YouGov survey, nearly a quarter (23%) of pet owners admitted to sharing their food with their dogs during the festive season. However, as many embark on a journey to healthier eating in the new year, they might unknowingly be introducing toxic elements into their dogs’ diets.
Pet business insurance specialists, Protectivity, emphasize the importance of awareness regarding which foods are safe for dogs. They caution that many items considered healthy for humans, including grapes, raisins, macadamia nuts, onions, garlic, xylitol (found in chewing gum), and dairy products, can be lethal for dogs.
This warning comes at a crucial time, considering the propensity of pet owners to share human food with their dogs. The experts from Protectivity advise, “This time of year can be full of hazards for pets as owners juggle festive leftovers and changes to their diet. The best way to prevent accidents is by educating yourself on which items are toxic, keeping them out of the way.”
Key Foods to Avoid:
- Grapes and Raisins: Often chosen as a healthy snack, grapes and raisins can cause kidney failure in dogs.
- Macadamia Nuts: Popular for their energy-boosting qualities, these nuts can lead to weakness, vomiting, and hypothermia in canines.
- Onions and Garlic: Common flavor enhancers in healthy recipes, these can destroy a dog’s red blood cells, leading to anemia.
- Xylitol (in Chewing Gum): While helpful in curbing cravings for humans, xylitol can cause rapid insulin increase and hypoglycemia in dogs.
- Dairy Products: Although beneficial for humans, many dogs are lactose intolerant and may suffer digestive issues from dairy consumption.
In addition to these diet foods, certain festive leftovers also pose a risk. Turkey, difficult for dogs to digest, can cause pancreatitis, while Christmas pudding, often containing raisins, is another hazard.
A spokesperson for Protectivity warns about the dangers of indulging pets with excess festive food and the importance of setting boundaries, not only for dog owners but also for those who work with dogs, like groomers and walkers.
“It’s tempting to indulge our four-legged friends with excess food, but this can have dangerous consequences. While improving your eating habits is commendable, remember that what’s healthy for you isn’t always good for them.”
For more information and insights, visit Protectivity.
