Ten dogs were rushed to an animal clinic because of food poisoning. Three were put to sleep because they have been non-responsive to treatments. Two died. The other five survived because of aggressive medical procedures. The toxic culprit? The innocuous looking bunch of grapes! Not very many dog owners know that grapes as well as raisins when consumed in large amount can have potentially dangerous effects on the life of the pet.

The red, green and black sweet grapes are jam packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. What makes these little gems more desirable is the fact they are low in calories. A weight watcher can enjoy bunch after bunch of grapes to reap the healthful benefits without worrying about gaining unwanted inches. These small harmless looking fruits however, can have dangerous effects on our four legged canine friends. Studies have been conducted on these fruits but until now it was not verified why dogs should not be allowed to eat grapes.

Grapes are perfectly safe for humans. Why is this fruit poisonous to dogs? Can it be due to the fertilizers and pesticides? Are the dogs poisoned because they swallow the fruit unpeeled? What is more perplexing with this fruit is the fact that some dogs seem to be unaffected by the toxin. Dog owners and dog trainers often use grapes and raisins as treats when training the dog. Additionally, it was observed that consumption of large quantities of grapes is lethal. Some dogs would be affected by ingesting a handful of grapes and raisins while some dog will not be affected at all. 

Behavioral change can be seen instantly once the dog has ingested large quantities of grapes. The dog will be highly agitated and become hyperactive. This will be followed by depression and lethargy. The dog will vomit and have diarrhea. The feces and the vomitus will contain partially digested grapes or raisins. It will be apparent that the dog is experiencing abdominal pains. The dog will be dehydrated. Because the dog’s system can no longer filter the toxins, the dog will not be able to pass urine.  When left untreated the dog have kidney failure. This will result to the death of the dog.

The best cure for grape toxicity would be prevention. Do not give and allow your dog to get hold of grapes and raisins. If you noticed that the dog has consumed large or even small quantities of grapes and raisins, you better rush the pet to a veterinary facility. Aggressive treatments such as stomach pumping and inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal and intravenous fluids will be done to save the life of the pet.