There are many different toxins that can affect our pets. Most of the toxins are also toxic to humans so we know to be careful with pet exposure. However, some agents are toxic to pets while being non-toxic to humans, and it is these agents that are dangerous as most people do not know they are pet toxins. The mose common example of this is chocolate, as some forms are highly toxic to pets.
A less known toxin for pets is raisins and grapes. Recently we were presented with a 15 week old puppy who may have been eating raisins and experienced kidney failure. The ASPCA Poison Control Center indicates that raisins and grapes may be toxic to some dogs. The ASPCA Poison Control Center managed 140 cases of raisin or grape toxicity in the last year. over 50 of these dogs developed symptoms ranging from vomiting to kidney failure, and 7 of these dogs died. The toxic principal causing these symptoms has yet to be identified. One specific case involved a 2 year old Australian shepherd that ingested 1 cup of raisins. The dog developed acute renal failure a few days later and died.
Another toxin the ASPCA is cautioning owners about is xylitol. Xylitol is a sweetener found in certain sugar-free chewing gums, candies, and other products. According to the ASPCA veterinarians, dogs ingesting significant amounts of gums and candies containing xylitol may develop a sudden drop in blood glucose level resulting in depression, loss of consciousness, and seizures. After known ingestion of this chemical, it is important to get your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Although it is possible cylitol causes liver failure in dogs, this has not been proven and the mechanism of toxicity is still not known. It is important to realize products safe for humans are not always safe for pets.
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