While you may think it’s harmless, or even funny, to give your dog a sip of your beer or wine, the truth is far from it.
What Alcohol Does to a Dog’s Body
The effects of alcohol on dogs are far more severe than they are on humans. This is due to their smaller size and the way their bodies process substances. Here’s what happens when a dog ingests alcohol:
- Depression of the central nervous system: Alcohol slows down brain activity and can cause lethargy, drowsiness, and loss of coordination.
- Damage to the liver and kidneys: These organs are responsible for filtering out toxins, and alcohol can cause serious harm to them.
- Low blood sugar: Alcohol can cause a dangerous drop in blood sugar levels, leading to seizures or even coma.
Signs Your Dog Has Ingested Alcohol
It’s important to know the signs of alcohol poisoning in dogs, so you can act swiftly if you suspect your pet has ingested alcohol. These symptoms include:
- Lack of coordination or stumbling
- Excessive drooling
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Decreased body temperature
- Changes in behavior, such as aggression or anxiety
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
What To Do If Your Dog Ingests Alcohol
If you suspect your dog has ingested alcohol, take these steps:
- Do not induce vomiting: This can cause more harm than good, especially if your dog is unconscious or semi-conscious.
- Contact your vet immediately: They can provide you with the best course of action based on your dog’s size, weight, and the amount of alcohol they ingested.
- Keep your dog comfortable and warm: Low body temperature is a common symptom of alcohol poisoning in dogs.
Preventing Access to Alcohol
Prevention is the best cure. Here are some steps you can take to keep your dog safe:
- Keep all alcoholic beverages out of your dog’s reach. This includes not just drinks, but also food cooked with alcohol and certain household products like mouthwash or hand sanitizer.
- Inform your guests not to give your dog any alcohol or food that may contain alcohol.
- Be aware of your dog’s surroundings, especially during parties or gatherings where alcohol is present.
FAQs
Q: Can a small amount of alcohol hurt my dog?
A: Yes, even small amounts of alcohol can be dangerous for dogs.
Q: My dog ate some of my beer-soaked barbecue. What should I do?
A: Monitor your dog for any symptoms and contact your vet if you notice anything unusual.
Q: Can dogs eat food cooked with alcohol?
A: It’s best to avoid it. Even if the alcohol cooks off, the food might still contain harmful ingredients.
Q: Can dogs have non-alcoholic beer?
A: Non-alcoholic beer still contains small amounts of alcohol and should be avoided.
Remember, you’re not just a pet owner—you’re a caregiver. It’s your responsibility to keep your furry friend safe and healthy. So, keep the drinks to yourself, and your dog will thank you.
