Staying safe this Spring
Written by Zoe Russell, BSc (Hons), ANutr,
Nutrition Officer, Skinner’s
After a seemingly endless winter, spring is finally upon us. This season brings with it new life, new growth and new temptations for our dogs. Many of these tempting “treats” can severely impact our dog’s health and therefore it’s important to be mindful of what your dog might encounter this season.
Chocolate
Why is it dangerous?
By now, we all know that chocolate is toxic for dogs as it contains compounds such as theobromine and caffeine, which aren’t processed very well in the body. The darker the chocolate, the more toxic it is and can cause symptoms such as diarrhoea, vomiting, increased heart rate, tremors and more.
How can I keep my dog safe?
Store chocolate away in a secure kitchen cupboard that’s out of reach of your dog. Also politely remind family members not to give your dog chocolate or any kind of sweet treats that are for humans only!
Bulbs and plants
Why are they dangerous?
Spring is the time when new bulbs emerge from the ground. Plants (and their bulbs) such as daffodils, tulips and hyacinths can be highly poisonous to dogs if eaten.
How can I keep my dog safe?
Try to plant only “dog-safe” plants in your garden and avoid growing toxic plants like daffodils. On walks make sure to keep your dog away from plants and bulbs or teach a positive “leave” command.
Grapes, raisins and sultanas
Why are they dangerous?
It’s nearly hot cross bun season, making dried fruits like grapes, raisins and sultanas a common feature in many households. However these little treats are toxic to dogs because they contain tartaric acid, which can cause kidney damage.
How can I keep my dog safe?
Try to keep foods like this out of the house altogether, or if your family like to have them stocked in the kitchen cupboards, ensure they are consumed away from your dog.
Xylitol (artificial sweetener found in sweets and other foods).
Why is it dangerous?
At this time of year the supermarket shelves are stocked with sweets and chocolate ready for easter. However many sweet treats and in fact foods such as chewing gum, contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol which can be highly toxic to dogs, even in small doses.
How can I keep my dog safe?
Check the label before giving your dog any sweet treats and make sure the product is intended for dogs. Also remind family members to keep sweet treats away from your pet.
Puddles and stagnant water
Why is it dangerous?
Bouts of bad weather can leave puddles, ponds and streams looking fuller. These pools of stagnant water will likely harbor bacteria, parasites, chemicals and more, especially if situated in a carpark or on a footpath.
How can I keep my dog safe?
Make sure your dog has access to fresh clean water at all times. If going on a walk, take a portable bowl and bottle with you so you can offer fresh, clean water when they need it. Try to discourage them drinking from puddles or stagnant water.
Onions, garlic and leeks
Why is it dangerous?
A nice warm, stew is commonplace in most households at this time of year, but common ingredients like onions or leeks can be toxic to dogs if ingested. This is because they contain compounds which can cause damage to a dog’s red blood cells, causing severe sickness and even death.
How can I keep my dog safe?
Keep all chopping and peeling on the kitchen side, away from hungry mouths and dispose of them safely into the bin.
Concerned your dog has eaten something they shouldn’t?
Please call your vet as soon as possible if you suspect they have consumed something dangerous- time is often of the essence.
Contact us
If you need any information regarding your dog’s diet, then our nutrition team are on-hand to help. Contact us at nutritionsupport@skinners.co.uk or drop us a call on 01379 384247.
