Dangerous Spices for Pets

Salt

• Excessive consumption of salt, whether in the form of table salt or in conjunction with foods such as chips, pretzels and prepackaged foods, may cause excessive thirst and urination in dogs or in a worst case scenario, sodium ion poisoning.

Onions, Garlic and Chives

• These spices cause gastrointestinal irritation in dogs. Minor consumption is not harmful but excessive consumption of these spices can result in red blood cell damage.

Xylitol

• Xylitol, an alcohol-based sweetener, is used in many low-fat or fat-free foods, candies, mints, gums and toothpastes. In dogs, xylitol causes a release of insulin which can lead to liver failure in the dog.

Chocolate

• Chocolate, along with coffee and caffeine, contains methylxanthine. When ingested by dogs, methylxanthine causes vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst and urination, tremors, seizures and in some instances, death.

Other Dangers

• These foods are also hazardous to a dog's health, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals: alcohol, avocados, macadamia nuts, grapes, raisins, yeast dough, raw or undercooked meat, bones and eggs, and milk.