Harm
Bones can chip or be swallowed that can cause obstruction or choking as well as intestinal blockage.
Contrary to what some believe that allowing their dog to play with bones can clean their teeth, too much biting of the bones will actually crack or damage the dog’s teeth.
Some of our dogs lost some of their teeth after scavenging in the trash for bones. It’s better to let them crunch on some
carrots or dental sticks than give them bones.
Symptoms
In some cases, dogs may have loose stools because of the bone marrow or constipation if they have consumed a large amount.
Treatment
It is better not to give your dogs raw or cooked bones. The amount of nutrients they will get from the tissues, marrows, and meat in the bones is not enough anyway. If your dog is a chewer, give them either carrots to munch on or a chew toy.
Citrus Oil Extracts
Citrus oil extracts are usually found in insect repellents, shampoos, and fragrances. It is also added to food for flavouring. Most humans who also practice aromatherapy benefit from citrus essential oil diffusion or topical application. However, you need to be extra careful in choosing essential oils to use around your pets.
Harm
When ingested by a dog, it metabolizes in the dog’s liver and causes liver failure or liver damage.
Symptoms
When dogs are exposed to citrus oil, they show these signs:
- Drooling
- Depression
- Weakness and Trembling or Ataxia (lack of coordination)
- Hypothermia
- Low blood pressure
- Dermatitis especially in the scrotal and perineal area
- Vomiting
- In severe cases, death is probable.
Treatment
If your dog has been exposed to citrus oil, it’s advised that you bathe him with liquid dish soap and warm water repeatedly until the smell of the oil is gone.
In case your dog ingested it, a gastric lavage may be performed or activated charcoal be administered. Do not induce vomiting as aspiration is at risk.
Dairy Products
Like
milk, dairy products are good sources of nutrients. Humans may consider them as super food. But can dogs also benefit from them?
Yes and no. In small amount, dairy products could be given to dogs. As their ‘guardian’ you must know if your dog is lactose intolerant or allergic to them.
Most cheeses have less lactose, less sodium and low fat so are safe for dogs in small quantities.
Symptoms
Vomiting, diarrhea, other gastrointestinal problems could occur when dogs consume too much dairy.
When giving dairy products like butter, ice cream and the like, remember that moderation is the key.
Fat Trimmings
Bacon is a favorite Christmas morning breakfast for many. Barbecue, pork chop, and other meat and greasy dishes are often served during occasions.
But you cannot be sure that a meat is 100% lean. Meat filled with fats can be bad for the health even for us humans. So it’s not surprising that it can also do harm to dogs.
Harm
Eating fats can lead to different complications and diseases. Although a small piece may not cause permanent damage to your dog, be careful not to give them pure fat cooked or uncooked as it can cause pancreatitis.
Symptoms
- Vomiting
- Discomfort
- Depression
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
- Chronic pancreatitis
Treatment
When you know that your dog has eaten a large amount of fatty food or lard, bring him to the vet immediately. They may induce vomiting to remove the food from your dog’s body before it can cause more harm.
Liver
Liver may be rich in nutrients and can be given to dogs. They will enjoy it as it is tasty. However, if they eat liver often, health problems may arise.
Harm
Do not feed your dog raw liver. Do not also let them consume three servings of cooked liver a week. Liver has high Vitamin A content if your dogs are on vitamin A supplements; there is no need to give them liver as it may cause hypervitaminosis A.
Symptoms
- Deformed bones or excessive bone growth on the elbows and spine
- Anorexia
Treatment
If you think that your dog had too much liver, take him to the vet immediately so they can perform the needed lab tests to detect the problem and perform any procedure that will remove the toxin from your dog’s body.