Can Garlic poison your dog?
Can I Give My Dog Garlic without poisoning it? That is a question many dog owners ask themselves. Dogs metabolise certain foods differently than we do, and that includes the allium family to which garlic and onions belong. These contain thiosulfate and this is considered toxic to dogs.
Your dog can suffer from haemolytic anemia due to oxidative damage to red blood cells caused by ingesting garlic. If your dog exhibits symptoms like pale mucous membranes, rapid breathing, lethargy, weakness, jaundice, and dark colored urine it is possible he is suffering from anemia. We have done a well-researched information on garlic which will bring into perspective and eliminate the questions you may have about garlic in relation to your dog.
Garlic in your dog’s food is it advisable?
Dog owners often wonder when is the correct time to introduce garlic to their dog diet thinking it will be benefit for their pet by adding a little bit of flavor to their food. Garlic is used in many culinary dishes and is a species of the onion. There are many benefits of garlic. Over a thousand years Garlic has also been used medicinally for treating poor digestion, parasite and flea prevention, respiratory problems and inactiveness.
Garlic is alleged to help remedy digestive disorders, fungal infections and effectively kills harmful worms present in the intestine and would be attractive to any dog owner whose dog is suffering from these conditions.
Pet owners who believe garlic helps prevent fleas should heed caution as much as you often have good intentions in promoting the wellbeing of your pets, long use of garlic in your pet food can lead to cardiovascular issues leading to Anemia later on or death.
It short, it may well cause more harm than good, even in small amounts. Going forward it would be wise to consult a vet before introducing any sort of supplement containing garlic, for medicinal/health purposes.
Toxic Effects of Allicin in Garlic for your pet
Garlic is known to help fight infection as it contains a compound called Allicin. This compound gives garlic its potent odor and contains antibacterial and antiviral properties, which is why most dog owners might think to use it when their dogs get sick. Sad thing is it is poisonous to both dogs and cats if not moderated. Garlic is considered to be about five times as toxic as onions for cats and dogs.
Garlic toxicity can be worse in some dogs than others, consumption of toxic dose spread out over a few days could cause problems but small doses might be safe. Garlic poisoning results in oxidative damage to the red blood cells (making the red blood cells more likely to rupture) and gastroenteritis (e.g., nausea, oral irritation, drooling, abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea). Other clinical signs of anaemia may be seen, and include lethargy, pale gums, an elevated heart rate, an increased respiratory rate, weakness, exercise intolerance, and collapse.
If you suspect your dog or cat has garlic poisoning, call your vet for treatment advice. Garlic and onion poisoning are rarely fatal in dogs, but your dog may need supportive care to keep him comfortable such as fluids and anti sickness medication.
In Summary
Garlic, as we know, is one of the very popular spices used almost all over the world. Garlic possesses notable antimicrobial properties which is very useful in controlling infections causing bacteria.
Holistic veterinarians have been recommending garlic for many years for its multiple health benefits. Some think it is safe to say that garlic is beneficial for dogs with suppressed immune systems and dogs fighting cancer but best advice is consult your veterinarian before administering any garlic to your dog.
Share with us your dog garlic experience and the effects it had, dog lovers would love to hear from you.
