(LOOTPRESS) – As the holiday season draws near, pet owners are reminded to keep a close eye on potential holiday hazards for their pets. With increased gatherings and seasonal foods, the Pet Poison Helpline highlights the six most common toxins posing dangers to pets during this time: chocolate, xylitol, grapes/raisins, onions/garlic, unbaked bread dough, and marijuana.
“The holiday season is one of our busiest times,” says Dr. Renee Schmid, senior veterinary toxicologist at Pet Poison Helpline. New holiday foods, unfamiliar people, and higher traffic in homes can increase the risk of pets accidentally ingesting harmful substances. Chocolate, the most frequent culprit, contains theobromine and caffeine, which can cause vomiting, seizures, and even death. If chocolate also includes xylitol, marijuana, or raisins, its toxicity is even higher.
Xylitol, a common sugar substitute found in candies, gum, and baked goods, can rapidly lower a pet’s blood sugar and cause liver failure. Grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic also feature in many seasonal recipes, especially in stuffing, and are harmful to pets. Ingesting unbaked dough can result in bloating and, in rare cases, dangerous stomach twisting due to the yeast releasing carbon dioxide in the stomach.
Pets should also be kept away from marijuana products, which, with increased legalization, have become more accessible. “Marijuana exposure can leave pets in a dazed, glassy-eyed state,” explains Dr. Schmid, “and can result in vomiting, drooling, or more severe complications.”
A North Carolina dog owner, Elizabeth Laroche, recounted her experience with her dog Rocky, who ingested stuffing containing raisins. After unsuccessful attempts to induce vomiting, Laroche reached out to the Pet Poison Helpline. Rocky was then rushed to a veterinary clinic and treated for possible kidney damage.
Dr. Schmid advises pet owners to consult a veterinarian or the Pet Poison Helpline before attempting to treat their pets at home. Prevention remains key, with all treats, ingredients, and substances stored securely out of reach.
