Holiday parties and events are festive and full of joy. So it goes without saying that your dogs will be part of that celebration. Now this also means there are a lot of hidden dangers you should look out for such as food that can be toxic for your pet.
Keep Them Away From Chocolates
There’s a chemical in chocolate called theobromine that can be toxic to dogs when ingested. Make no mistake – even the smallest amount can send your dog into convulsions. Make sure chocolates are kept far away from your dog.
Keep Them Away From Grapes And Their Dried Versions
You don’t want your dog to experience severe kidney failure. This can happen to them if they ingest even a small amount of grapes or dried grapes. Raisins coated in chocolate is a double whammy. Also keep them away from puddings and pies containing this fruit.
Keep Them Away From Onions
It’s not only onions. Chives, shallots, leeks, and garlic are all equally toxic for dogs. It doesn’t matter whether it’s cooked or uncooked plants coming from the allium species – they should be kept far away from dogs.
Damaging the red blood cells due to onions can make your dog anemic. Symptoms include diarrhea and vomiting. These can manifest a few days after ingestion.
Keep Them Away From Alcohol
Just like people, dogs can get drunk too. Now we all know what happens when a person gets too drunk. Don’t let your dog find unattended alcohol. In the worst case scenario, dogs might go into a coma. Alcohol might be fun for parties but keep in mind that dogs don’t have as much control over what they drink as we do. So keep those bottles away.
Keep Them Away From Leftovers
Be extra careful when putting away your leftovers after a party. If your dog accidentally finds them, they might consume ingredients that are toxic for them. Dispose of leftovers in an airtight garbage bag and keep the trash can out of reach.
Keep Them Away From Artificial Sweeteners
A lot of sweets we consume contain the artificial sweetener Xylitol which can be toxic to dogs, especially smaller ones. Liver damage and blood sugar problems can result if ingested by your canine.
So Which Leftovers Are Okay?
There are still a handful of foods served during festive occasions that your dog can eat. For example, meat coming from salmon, lamb, and turkey are all okay for your pet. Green beans, carrots, Brussel sprouts, peas, and all sort of potatoes are also okay.
Other Dangers To Look Out For
More hazards to consider are decorations during the holidays. Especially ones with small ornaments that have the risk of being swallowed. Candles and wrapping papers are also dangerous for small dogs.
Cigarette waste contain nicotine which is definitely dangerous for dogs when ingested. Also, look out for plant decorations that can fall to the floor.
Bottom line: always keep an eye on your dog during parties and large gatherings.
