Grapes and Raisins

Julie, a person I work with at 1-800-PetMeds, mentioned that she received an email which states giving grapes or raisins to your dog can be dangerous. Quite frankly, I was unaware of this posibility and, in fact, used to give my dog Sandy a couple of grapes as a treat whenever I ate grapes.

It turns out, that this is not an urban legend. It is reality. Grapes and raisins can be poisonous to dogs. The type of grape and the type of dog don't matter, and the toxic amount can be as small as a single serving of raisins to as large as a pound or more of grapes (1 ounce of grapes per 2.2 lbs of body weight).

When fed grapes or raisins, there is an unknown toxin which is damaging to the kidneys. Initially, pets fed grapes or raisins will exhibit gastrointestinal signs such as vomiting and diarrhea. Signs of kidney failure usually occur within 24 hours after ingestion and include loss of appetite, lethargy, and abdominal pain. The dog may stop drinking and urinating.

Key points to remember:

• Since the amount of grapes or raisins that can cause toxicity can vary, it's best not to give your dog grapes or raisins at all.
• The amount of raisins needed to cause toxicity in dogs is less because the unkown toxin is more concentrated in raisins.
• Do not leave grapes or raisins where your dog can get at them easily.
• If you suspect your pet has eaten grapes or raisins, contact your veterinarian immediately. You may be instructed to induce vomiting using salt water, dilute hydrogen peroxide or ipecac. Your veterinarian will tell you which to use.
• For more information regarding grape and raisin toxicity log onto:
  http://vetmedicine.about.com/od/toxicology/f/grape_raisin.htm

Log onto www.PetHealth101.com for additional information regarding pet health and poisons in general.