Although the kitchen can be a wonderful gathering space for family and friends, it can also be a source of potential dangers to your pet. According to the Pet Poison Helpline, the top 10 dangers in the kitchen are:
- Chocolate (especially dark and baker’s chocolate)
- Grapes, raisins, and currants
- Xylitol (in sugar free gum and candy)
- Fatty table scraps (can cause pancreatitis, a potentially fatal disease)
- Onions and garlic (even cooked it can be dangerous)
- Compost (not sure I have any of that in my kitchen, but hey who am I to judge)
- Human medications
- Macadamia nuts
- Household cleansers
- Unbaked bread dough and alcohol
So enjoy the kitchen, but keep it safe for your pets! If your pet has ingested any of the above dangerous items, call your veterinarian immediately! You can also contact the Pet Poison Helpline at 1-800-213-6680 for a small fee. Taking action quickly can mean the difference between a good and bad outcome.