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Long regarded as healthy treats for our pets, both
grapes and raisins have been associated with toxic properties
and associated deaths in dogs who have ingested various
amounts of grapes or raisins. Although it is still uncertain
as to what is/are the toxic ingredient(s) in grapes
and raisins, it is now clear that they are far from
healthy for our pets.
Around 1999, Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) began
to notice a trend in dogs who had eaten grapes or raisins.
Nearly all developed acute renal (kidney) failure. Ingested
grapes were either purchased fresh from grocery stores
or grown in private yards, and were of various brand
names. Ingested amounts varied as well; from over a
pound of grapes to as little as a single serving of
raisins.
APCC's data base showed that dogs who ate the grapes
and raisins typically vomited within a few hours of
ingestion. Vomitous revealed partially digested grapes
or raisins. At this point, some dogs stopped eating,
developed diarrhea, and became quiet and lethargic,
showing signs of abdominal pain. Symptoms lasted for
several days to weeks.
Abnormalities in kidney function tests were evident
anywhere from 24 hours to several days after the dogs
ate the fruit. As the kidney damage developed , the
dogs would produce little urine. When they could no
longer produce urine, death occurred.
Why the fruit causes dogs to become ill no one knows.
Suspect grapes and raisins have been checked for pesticides,
heavy metals (such as lead and zinc), mycotoxins (fungal
contaminants), and so far all have come back negative.
Although the exact cause of the renal failure is unknown,
treatment can be successful. Recent ingestion cases
can be induced to vomit, and given activated charcoal
to absorb potential toxins. Dogs should be hospitalized
and placed on fluids for at least 48 hours. Blood tests
are monitored for the effects on the kidney function
tests. Treatment is maintained until function tests
have normalized.
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