Cosy sweaters, pumpkin-spiced everything, and the changing leaves are all having their moment as October continues to load. If you’re a fan of Halloween, you’ve probably already got plans for the 31st of the month and started picking up spooky decorations and sugary treats. But what does this mean if you have pets? Should you be taking extra care in the run-up to the Halloween holiday? Do all dogs have a sugar intolerance, and which foods have the potential to give you and your pet a fright? Could a pet food intolerance test help you? We answer all the questions below.
Chocolate can cause multiple health complications for dogs
Halloween wouldn’t be the same without a sugar rush, but chocolate can be more of a bad trick than a treat if your dog eats some. Because it contains a stimulant called theobromine, consuming chocolate can cause the onset of serious complications such as kidney failure, heart failure, seizures and even death, especially when the cocoa content is high. It’s, therefore, imperative that you call your vet for advice if your dog eats even a small amount because their health could be in grave danger. It’s a given that chocolate and candy will be handed out to excited trick-or-treaters during the Halloween celebrations, but it’s in everyone’s interest to keep it out of your dog’s reach. It’s also a good idea to educate your guests about the dangers of feeding unsuitable food to pets to save you from some expensive vet bills and protect your dog’s health.
Artificial sweeteners (xylitol) can affect your dog’s blood sugar levels
Chocolate isn’t the only treat that could turn your Halloween into a scary movie of its own. Eating anything that contains xylitol, such as candy, chewing gum and peanut butter, could trigger the release of insulin and cause your dog’s blood sugar levels to drop. Without medical attention, this could lead to the onset of liver failure within days, along with symptoms such as vomiting, seizures and low energy. Because a sweet intolerance has the potential to make your dog extremely sick, you’ll need to take them to a vet immediately if you think they have eaten something laced with xylitol. Failing to do so could jeopardize their health, so don’t hesitate to seek medical advice if your dog has helped themselves to something sweet.
Apples can give your dog diarrhoea
Because apples are high in vitamins A and C, they can be a healthy snack for your dog if they’re prepared properly. However, they could be in trouble if they consume the wrong part or eat too many. The stem and core, for example, can pose a choking hazard if they get lodged in your dog’s throat, while apple pips contain a small amount of cyanide that’s released when chewed. Because they’re high in fibre, apples can also give your dog diarrhea and stomach ache if they eat too many, which makes for a pretty miserable Halloween. If you’re preparing apples for candying, baking, or even bobbing, there’s nothing wrong with letting your dog have a little amount, but check in with your vet if they eat too much.
Dried fruit and raisins can give your dog liver damage
If oatmeal and raisin cookies are your thing, or you like sweet treats that contain dried fruit, you’ll need to take extra care if you have a dog. Along with grapes, both raisins and dried fruit can cause severe liver damage and kidney failure if they’re eaten by your pet. Repeated vomiting is an early symptom to watch out for, as well as acting sluggish and depressed, so don’t hesitate to call your vet if you suspect your dog is showing signs of a sweet intolerance or illness. Of course, these guidelines apply at any time of the year, not just in October, but it’s best to be extra vigilant over the Halloween holiday and leave the scares to the movies.
Contact Canada Pet Food Intolerance for a pet food intolerance test
If you’d like to find out how a food intolerance test can improve your pet’s health this fall, you can place an order on the Canada Pet Food Intolerance website. You can also email any questions you have to [email protected] or fill out the site’s contact form. Always remember that while we are happy to help you select the right food intolerance test for your dog or cat, any medical issues should be talked through with your vet.
