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Americans typically consume more than 205,000 metric tons of raisins a year, according to Statisa. While raisins and grapes can be tasty and nutritious snacks for humans, they are poisonous to dogs.
The exact reason why raisins and grapes are toxic to dogs continues to be investigated. A recent hypothesis suggested a substance called “tartaric acid” is to blame. This organic acid occurs in many fruits, including bananas.
According to Petmd.com, dogs may lack the ability to metabolize the flavonoids, tannins and monosaccharides from grapes. The reaction to the toxin varies among dogs, but even just one or a few grapes or raisins can lead to fatal kidney failure. They are just bad news for dogs. Period.
What are the symptoms of grape and raisin toxicity in dogs? They aren’t pretty. They typically manifest 12-24 hours after consumption. Petmd.com lists these symptoms:
- Vomiting and/or diarrhea, often within a few hours of ingestion. (Pieces of grapes or raisins may be visible in your dog’s stool.)
- Increased urination during the initial stages.
- Drinking a lot during the initial stages.
- Decreased urination or not urinating (sign of the kidneys shutting down)
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy, weakness, or unusual quietness
- Dehydration (Check by gently pulling up the skin at the back of your dog’s neck. If it doesn’t go back into place right away, your dog is dehydrated.)
- Bad breath
If you suspect your dog has eaten grapes or raisins and has become sick, take him or her to the veterinarian or pet emergency clinic immediately! The Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) and the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center also can assist you with the emergency.
The best advice: “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Grapes and raisins may be great in a fruit salad or oatmeal cookies, but they have no place near your pooch’s tastebuds. No sharing please!
Until next time,
Hugs and Pug Kisses,
Candy.
P.S. – More details on grape and raisin toxicity in dogs and its treatment can be found on these websites:
Raisin and Grape Toxicosis in Dogs – Toxicology – Merck Veterinary Manual (merckvetmanual.com)
Are grapes really toxic to dogs? | FirstVet
Why Grapes & Raisins Are So Dangerous for Dogs | Daily Paws
Sources and Links:
• U.S. domestic raisin consumption, 2018 | Statista
Mystery Solved: Why Grapes are Toxic to Dogs | Grady Veterinary Hospital | Grady Veterinary Hospital
Can Dogs Eat Grapes and Raisins? Are Grapes Poisonous to Dogs? (akc.org)
Photo by James Barker on Unsplash
