As a caregiver, your role is to ensure the wellbeing and safety of those under your care – and that includes your furry friends. Dogs, just like us, have a sweet tooth, and it might be tempting to share your fruit snacks with them. But some fruits can be harmful, even deadly, to our canine companions.
1. Grapes and Raisins
Grapes and raisins are extremely toxic to dogs. Even small amounts can lead to severe kidney damage or even death. The exact substance causing this is still unknown, but the risk is real.
- Symptoms of grape or raisin poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and lethargy.
- If you suspect your dog has ingested grapes or raisins, seek veterinary help immediately.
2. Avocados
While avocados might be a superfood for humans, they are not for dogs. The persin in avocado can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
- Don’t let your dog eat the pit. It’s a choking hazard and contains most of the persin.
- If your dog eats avocado and shows symptoms, consult your vet.
3. Citrus Fruits
While not as deadly as grapes or avocados, citrus fruits like lemons, limes, and especially grapefruit should be avoided.
- The citric acid can cause an upset stomach, and the oils can irritate their skin.
- If your dog eats citrus and shows discomfort, provide plenty of water and monitor them.
4. Cherries
Cherries contain cyanide, which is poisonous to dogs. While they would have to eat a large number of cherries to get sick, it’s best to avoid them altogether.
- Cyanide disrupts cellular oxygen transport, leading to suffocation at high enough levels.
- If your dog has eaten cherries, look for symptoms like dilated pupils, difficulty breathing, and red gums.
5. Apples
Apples themselves are not harmful to dogs, but their seeds contain cyanide. While a few seeds are not likely to harm your dog, ingestion of larger amounts can be dangerous.
- Always remove the core and seeds before giving your dog an apple.
- If your dog has ingested a significant number of apple seeds, take them to the vet.
| Fruit | Toxic Part | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Grapes/Raisins | Whole fruit | Vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain |
| Avocados | Pit | Vomiting, diarrhea |
| Citrus fruits | Whole fruit | Upset stomach, skin irritation |
| Cherries | Whole fruit | Dilated pupils, difficulty breathing |
| Apples | Seeds | Vomiting, panting, difficulty breathing |
FAQ
Q: Can my dog eat bananas?
A: Yes, bananas are safe for dogs in moderation due to their high sugar content.
Q: What about strawberries?
A: Yes, strawberries are safe but should be washed thoroughly to remove any pesticides.
Q: My dog ate a grape, what should I do?
A: Contact your vet immediately. Even one grape can be harmful to a dog.
Q: Can I feed my dog fruit every day?
A: Yes, but only safe fruits and in moderation. Too much fruit can lead to digestive issues due to high fiber content.
Remember, when in doubt, consult with your vet. Your furry friend’s health always comes first.
