Poison Guide for Pet Owners:
Foods, Plants and Products that are Poisonous to Dogs

Foods that are Poisonous to Dogs

There are a number of seemingly innocent human foods that are poisonous to dogs. Feeding pets the foods we like may not be a good thing. Foods that taste delicious to us can be toxic to dogs.

While many people know that chocolate poisoning in dogs can be serious, there are a number of other common foods that can poison dogs, sometimes fatally. Here is a list of foods to be sure to keep out of your dog's reach:

• Chocolate poisoning: Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is a cardiac stimulant and diuretic. If your dog ingests chocolate, it may pass an excessive amount of urine, become hyperactive and have vomiting and diarrhea. It may be fatal. Cocoa powder and baking chocolate are the most toxic, milk chocolate the least.
  
  
• Onion and Garlic toxicity: Onions and garlic contain thiosulphate, which is toxic to dogs. Onions are most toxic. If you dog eats a large amount of onions or a small amount over a period of time, he can develop hemolytic anemia, where his blood vessels burst. Early signs of toxicity are vomiting and diarrhea.
  
  
• Raisins and Grapes - One grape may not be a problem, but a handful could cause serious problems. Raisins are particularly harmful and can lead to lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and kidney failure.
  
  
• Macadamia Nuts - Affected dogs can experience tremors and weakness or paralysis of the hindquarters.
  
  
• Alcohol poisoning - some people think it is fun to give their dog a sip of beer or wine, but this can be very dangerous. Dogs absorb alcohol very quickly and can have serious reactions, including seizures, heart arrythmias, kidney damage and even death.
  
  

Other foods dangerous to dogs:

• -The pits or cores of apples, pears, peaches, apricots and plums
  -Potato peels
  -Coffee grounds (due to caffeine)
  -Broccoli (large amounts can cause stomach upset)

Common household products and items that can poison dogs:

• Cigarettes, tobacco, cigars
• Mothballs
• Antifreeze (be aware--dogs like the sweet taste)
• Lead poisoning
  
  

Poison Plants for Dogs

There is a number of plants that are poisonous to dogs. Among them are:

• Wild mushrooms
• tomato leaves and stems
• Mistletoe
• Poinsettia
• Oleander
• Pyracantha
• Bulbs of flowers, especially lilies

ANIMAL POISON CONTROL HOTLINES

If in doubt, call one of the following agencies:

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, the national resource for any animal poison-related emergency: (888) 426-4435. Specially trained veterinary toxicologists are on-duty 24/7. There is a $55 consultation fee.

Pet Poison Helpline:
(800) 213-6680. $35 per call.

Angell Poison Control Hotline
(877) 2ANGELL. $50 per call