Dogs typically are not very discriminating eaters. As an emergency veterinarian, I have seen dogs that have ingested cigarettes, batteries, ant bait, rubbing alcohol and silica gel packets, to name just a few.

Most dog owners know that chocolate is dangerous to dogs (it can cause heart rate irregularities), but they may not be aware of other seemingly harmless foods and products that can be toxic. If your dog ingests any of the following, see a veterinarian immediately.

Grapes and raisins have been shown to cause kidney failure in dogs. The toxic ingredient is unclear, but it is currently being studied in the veterinary community (a fungus is suspected). The amount of grapes or raisins that may cause kidney failure is not exactly known, so any amount could potentially be dangerous.

Xylitol is an increasingly popular sugar substitute found in many sugar-free gums, candies and other foods. In dogs, ingestion of as few as three pieces of gum with xylitol can result in rapid, life-threatening hypoglycemia (low blood sugar). Higher amounts may lead to irreversible liver damage and death.

Macadamia nuts may cause weakness, lethargy, vomiting, lack of coordination, tremors and hyperthermia (an increase in body temperature) when eaten by dogs. They are especially toxic when coated in chocolate. Because dogs vary so much in size, it’s difficult to determine how many macadamia nuts are dangerous. A small handful could be toxic to a small dog, while a very large dog probably would need to ingest a pound or so.

Certain glues, including Gorilla Glue and Elmer’s Probond, have diphenylmethane diisocyanate as the active ingredient. This substance, if ingested, can expand to many times its original volume, forming a foamlike ball in a dog’s stomach. For some reason, dogs are attracted to the taste. Signs of blockage include vomiting and nausea (drooling and licking of the lips), with eventual dehydration and weakness.

Cocoa mulch. Like chocolate, mulch from the hulls of cocoa beans contains theobromine, which can cause a toxic reaction in dogs. Dog owners should use regular mulch in garden areas.

When you have questions or need help conatct me at scott@professionalproblemsolver.com