(MENAFN- Khaleej Times) A chocolate may be a treat for your taste buds, but it can be harmful to your dog, warned a veterinary expert.
In view of the International Animal Poison Prevention Week - observed every year during the third week of March - Dr Sara Elliott at British Veterinary Hospital in Dubai said pet lovers must ensure that chocolates are not lying around the house or in the backyard.
"A dog's metabolism while digesting chocolate is slow compared to their owners. Chocolate contains theobromine, a chemical which has similar effects to caffeine. It increases their heart rate and excitability or irritability could lead to seizures."
On the 50th International Animal Poison Prevention Week, Dr Elliott said the week is all about bringing knowledge and awareness to all pet owners regarding the many poisonous hazards in and around homes and what to do if you know or suspect your pet has ingested something potentially harmful.
"It's important that pet owners are aware of the potential poison hazards - a little bit of knowledge can go a long way and it could save your pet's life. This time of the year is still cool enough for pets and their owners to spend time outside, but spring can be hazardous for animals if they are left unsupervised in an active gardening space.
"One of the most common poisons in gardening substances is fertiliser in any form. Most animals enjoy being outdoors and around plants, which are prime locations for herbicides, pesticides and other chemicals, so it is essential to dig fertilisers deep into the soil, making them inaccessible. In addition, it's important to ensure any liquid applications are allowed time to dry before letting pets back outdoors."
Dr Elliott put 12-year-old Inka, a black Labrador, to sleep on Friday, just two days before the Animal Poison Week. The family favourite suffered slug bait poisoning from a gardener leaving a carrier bag full in the garden. It was an unlabelled bag and the gardener had no knowledge as to proper storage or risks.
It's not just the outdoors that poses threats to pets. Some commonplace houseplants such as lilies, tulips, oleanders and daffodils can also be toxic, some of which are a favourite of cats. If ingested, these plants can cause symptoms such as vomiting, drooling, skin irritation and even kidney damage. It is beneficial to keep all plants out of the reach of pets to err on the side of caution.
Dr Elliott explained if anyone suspects their pet has eaten a poisonous substance, they should remember most toxins won't activate immediately, it can take time to show effects, so they must remain vigilant for signs of distress.
Dr Elliott also advised to avoid feeding pets grapes or raisins, which can lead to kidney failure. Garlic and onions are foods that can cause blood cell damage and a stomach upset. She also emphasised the importance of keeping over the counter medications in a cabinet. "Pets are like toddlers, everything that could cause harm should be out of reach," she said.
5 points to keep in mind if you've pets
> Leaving your pets unsupervised in a gardening space could be harmful
> Fertilisers are the most common poisonous hazard, and it's essential that they are dug deep into the soil.
> Any liquid application, including herbicides and pesticides, should be allowed time to dry before letting pets close to it.
> Some houseplants such as lilies, tulips, oleanders and daffodils can also be toxic for pets.
> Toxins may take time to show effect, so be vigilant if you have any suspicions.
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