Photo by RDNE Stock project
Article courtesy of MF TECNO Packaging Systems
While some human foods are safe for dogs, others are toxic, and when you have children and dogs in the house, it can be easy for pets to eat something dangerous.
Making the mistake of not paying attention to your dog while your child is eating could put your pet at risk. Small things like a snack dropped on the floor by accident, or a child innocently tossing food to the dog, can expose pets to serious harm. Because of this, families need to be aware of the risks so they can take steps to protect their pets.
Luckily, experts at MF TECNO Packaging Systems have revealed a few of the common foods that can be dangerous to dogs, so you know what to watch out for when your children are eating around the family dog.
Onions
Onions are a common ingredient in many family meals. However, they are extremely toxic to dogs, whether they are raw, cooked, powdered, or dried. This is because they are part of a group of foods called the allium family, which contain compounds called thiosulfates. These compounds damage red blood cells and can lead to a serious condition called hemolytic anemia. Symptoms can start within 24 hours of consumption but usually take a few days to appear, including vomiting, diarrhea, reduced appetite and dehydration.
Grapes and raisins
Grapes and raisins are another common food loved by children that can cause serious harm to dogs. Even a tiny amount of either can cause sudden and severe kidney failure, with symptoms including vomiting, lethargy and decreased urination.
Symptoms of poisoning usually begin to show within six to 12 hours of your pet consuming grapes or raisins.
Garlic
Similar to onions, garlic is common in many family meals, but it is also part of the allium family and is toxic to dogs, leading to hemolytic anemia if consumed. It is important for pet owners to be aware of this, as garlic is a common flavoring in many dishes.
Garlic can also be hard to detect in some recipes, so if you buy any pre-prepared food, it is safest to assume that any seasoned dish might contain it.
Food packaging
Most foods come with packaging, and this can be easy to overlook; however, packaging can be harmful to dogs if left within their reach, and with children involved, this can easily happen.
Things like plastic wrap, aluminum foil, chip bags, and any other kind of packaging all have the potential to cause choking, intestinal blockages or internal injuries if chewed or swallowed.
Maurizio Massini, Sales Director of MF TECNO Packaging Systems, commented,
“Many pet owners like to give a portion of their food to their dog, but it is important to ensure your children aren’t unknowingly giving them foods that can be harmful. There are many safe foods that your pet can have, but it is important to be vigilant about what they are eating.
“If you have a dog, it’s a good idea to tell your children not to feed any of their food to the dog, no matter what it is, and to keep your dog out of the room while your child eats to prevent your pet from eating leftovers or any food that may drop on the floor.
“If your dog does consume any dangerous foods, it is important to stay calm and contact your veterinarian as soon as possible for advice and treatment.”