Page 114 - ESCARPMENT MAGAZINE | Winter 2013

escarpment
FOUR LEGGED FRIENDS
By DR. JACQUIE PANKATZ
Après Ski get togethers are favourite events over these snowy months but considering the
effects our parties might have on our four legged friend companions is important. For example, chocolate is a de-
lightful snack, particularly in the Winter months, but unfortunately it is one of the most common toxicities seen in vet-
erinary hospitals. Chocolate is toxic to both dogs and cats and never should be fed or left out where they may gain
access to it. Dark chocolate can be particularly dangerous as it contains high concentrations of theobromine, a sub-
stance that can cause neurological disturbances and even death. Pets that survive chocolate exposure may have
to deal with long-lasting conditions such as seizures for the rest of their life. If you know that your pet has eaten
chocolate your veterinarian should be alerted immediately as emergency treatment is warranted to prevent the
theobromine from being absorbed into the blood stream. Xylitol, an artificial sweetener that is a common ingredient
in many sugar-less gums, is being used more frequently as an alternative to sugar in baking products. Harmless to
humans, it can cause deadly side effects in dogs including severe hypoglycemia (low blood sugar levels) and liver
damage. At this time, there are no reports of xylitol causing problems in cats.
Surprisingly, grapes and raisons are also potentially toxic to dogs and cats and can cause acute kidney failure lead-
ing to death in severe cases. It is not known why some pets can ingest grapes and raisons without causing problems
but to be on the safe side, exposure should be avoided. The jury is still out whether or not grape juice can produce
the same effects. Après Ski buffets that contain turkey can be very tempting for our pets but can pose many hazards.
Turkey bones can cause esophageal and intestinal irritation and may lead to intestinal blockage or perforation. A
condition called acute pancreatitis may occur in pets that have ingested a fatty meal or raided the turkey leftover
garbage. Symptoms include vomiting and/or diarrhea, a sore belly and often fever. Treatment usually requires hos-
pitalization and treatment with intravenous fluids and medications.
Enjoying après beverages may lead to morning-after headaches for party-goers which many people treat with com-
mon over the counter painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen and acetaminophen. These products should never be
given to our pets or placed in an area where they may ingest them as they are highly toxic. Never give your pet an
over the counter medication without consulting with a veterinarian first as many medications that humans can take
are unsafe in our pets.
Although it won’t be found at your party, antifreeze is a common household product used during our winter season.
Animals are attracted to it as it has a very sweet flavour. Even small concentrations can be lethal to dogs and cats
so it is best to keep antifreeze well out of reach in a locked cabinet or high shelf and any accidental spills should be
cleaned up immediately.
The party’s over.
114 Escarpment Magazine Winter 2013