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People food can kill your pet

Posted on May 17th 2008 7:00AM by Jacki Donaldson
It's clear what kinds of foods are bad for us. Anything loaded with sugar, trans fats, and sodium for starters. But do you know what kinds of foods are bad for pets? Think human foods, not pet foods.

It's best to stick with pet foods for the nourishment of your beloved pup. But it's tempting to treat your furry friend to a little table food now and then. And that's what many people do. In 2007, the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center received more than 130,000 calls regarding animal poisoning caused by common human foods and household items. Here are the top culprits.

  • Avocados
  • Beer
  • Chocolate
  • Candy
  • Caffeine
  • Grapes and raisins
  • Nuts
  • Onions

If you simply must indulge your canine companion, these items are safest. Check with your veterinarian first, though, because some animals may have sensitive gastrointestinal tracts. And keep the extras to five to 10 percent of your pet's daily caloric intake.

  • Baked potatoes
  • Cooked, lean meats. No bones.
  • Fruit, like apple slices, orange slices, bananas, and watermelon. No seeds.
  • Rice and pasta
  • Vegetables, like carrot sticks, green beans, cucumber slices, and zucchini

In the case of a pet-food emergency, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

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