Potato, Rhubarb and Tomato Leaves
We enjoy French fries, hash browns and sometimes potato salads. Potatoes richly contain nutrients that are needed by our dogs. But how safe are potatoes, rhubarb and tomato leaves to dogs? It depends.
Harm
Potatoes are good for dogs when
baked or boiled. Fried potatoes however like French fries and potato chips are oily and salty which are not healthy for dogs. Raw potatoes also contain solanine which is toxic to dogs and are also reduced when cooked.
Rhubarb leaves and tomato leaves can be dangerous to dogs too---although it would take a few rhubarb leaves to be consumed before it is considered toxic.
Soluble calcium oxalates that are found in rhubarb leaves when absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract will bind with body’s calcium, resulting in a sudden drop in calcium.
Symptoms
- Unusual drooling
- Loss of appetite
- Weakness and lethargy
- Tremors
- Changes in thirst and urination
Treatment
Home remedy can be done by rinsing the mouth and affected areas with cool water to remove as much of the plant. Vets may intravenous fluid treatment to prevent dehydration and flush out the toxins.