news-record.com

What NOT to feed your dog

Real Simple magazine's October edition lists eight of the most dangerous foods to feed your dogs. I only knew about two of them, so this was an eye-opening list.

1. Chocolate. Stimulates the nervous system and the heart.
2. Grapes, raisins. Damages the kidneys.
3. Garlic, onions. Damage red blood cells, causing anemia.
4. Xylitol (found in sugarless gum). Causes increased insulin secretion, resulting in lower blood sugar levels.
5. Alcoholic drinks. Depress the nervous system.
6. Ray yeast, bread dough. Forms gas in the digestive track; fermentation of yeast causes alcoholic poisoning.
7. Macadamia nuts. Cause muscle and nervous-system problems.
8. Avocados. Contain persin, which damages the heart muscle.

Once, Greta gulped up a large piece of pizza crust on a walk after trash day and I was nervous that the crust might be moldy. Who knew how long that crust had been in the trash. I called the vet immediately and they said I should induce vomiting in her by using hydrogen peroxide, administered to her through a turkey baster. I didn't have either of these items. After a quick trip to Food Lion, I did as I was told and all systems were cleared out.

So we're ready with our turkey baster in case of another emergency. We'll be sure to keep the garlic and grapes out of reach.

Call your veterinarian if your pet has consumed any of these items and you are concerned.