Few people realize the danger in giving grapes or raisins to their pet dogs. According to the ASPCA Poison Control Center, as few as 7 raisins or grapes can prove toxic.
No one knows exactly why grapes, raisins and dogs are such a lethal combination. Indeed, these foods are not harmful to every dog in every situation; but for some unlucky dogs, these foods can cause acute kidney failure, which may lead to their eventual death.
In the article, Raisins and Grapes Can Be Harmful to Dogs, Dr Laurinda Morris DVM, an Danville,Ohio vet, recounts a tale of a patient who lost her male Labrador mix after eating half a canister of raisins. After Dr Laurinda struggled to treat the dog , he had to be euthanized due to acute renal failure, caused by consuming such a large quantity of raisins.
Dangerous foods for dogs,like grapes or raisins are often given innocently as treats, without their owners being aware of the risks. Whilst many dog owners these days are better informed about the potential dangers of feeding chocolate to their pets (Theobromine found in coco beans is toxic to dogs, cats and horses), many do not realize the problems that a few grapes or raisins may cause. Linda Bonney of bestanimalloves.com, states in her article,Your Pet Versus Raisins and Grapes (09/20/07), “Many people I know give their dogs grapes and raisins as treats, including our ex-handlers.”
Why Raisins and Grapes are Toxic Foods to Dogs
Grape or raisin toxicity can cause acute kidney failure. Dogs are unable to pass urine, which means their systems cannot filter the toxins from their bodies.
However, what is puzzling is that some dogs are affected, whilst others do not experience any problems. In 140 such cases handled by the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center, one third of the dogs developed toxic poisoning from eating grapes or raisins; of which 7 died.
Given their findings, the ASPCA website advises “against feeding pets grapes or raisins in any amount” as it is also not known whether dogs suffer from the cumulative effect of consuming a small quantity, over a period of time.
Symptoms of Poisioning from Grapes and Raisins
It may take up to several hours for a dog to show signs of discomfort. He will vomit repeatedly, and become agitated and hyperactive. The dog will become lethargic and depressed, suffer from diarrhea and experience abdominal pain. He will also become dehydrated and partially digested grapes or raisins are likely to be seen in vomit and feces. These symptoms are outlined in the ASPCA Animal Watch article, The Wrath of Grapes by Dr Means, veterinary toxicologist, (Summer 2002 ,Vol. 22, No. 2)
Treatment for Suspected Poisoning.
Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your pet dog may be suffering from grape or raisin toxicity. As an initial emergency measure, your vet may advise you to induce vomiting (if vomiting has not already occurred) and give your dog activated charcoal (powder, tablets or capsules), or blackened, burnt toast, which acts as a substitute.
If a vet is unavailable, pet owners that live in the United States can contact the ASPCA Poison Control Center for pet advice. Tel : 888-425-4435, although there is usually a consultation fee, charged to a credit card.
Prevention of Grape and Raisin Poisoning In The Home
Ensure that grapes and raisins are not left out on display, in easy reach of your pet. Keep boxes and canisters of raisins safely stored away in a cupboard. Raisins are more concentrated than grapes and are therefore more toxic. Avoid giving pets cookies that contain raisins.
Most importantly, educate members of your family (and friends) as to the dangers these toxic foods may present. It is vital that children understand what they can and can’t feed their pet dog, and that slipping Fido a few chocolate covered raisins may prove fatal.
