Boppard. Alcohol is extremely dangerous for dogs and, in the worst case, can be fatal. Even small quantities can cause severe health problems. It is important that dog owners are aware of the risks and make sure that their dogs have no access to alcoholic beverages or food that contain alcohol.
Alcohol is highly toxic to dogs
Dogs process alcohol differently than humans. Your liver cannot reduce alcohol so efficiently, which leads to a faster and stronger effect. Ethanol, the main component of alcohol, has toxic to the central nervous system of dogs. A dose of 5.5 to 7.0 milliliters of pure ethanol per kilogram of body weight can lead to poisoning.
What symptoms can occur?
The symptoms of alcohol poisoning in dogs can be diverse and depend on the amount absorbed and the size of the dog. The most common symptoms include:
- Vomiting and diarrhea: The body tries to get rid of the alcohol.
- Coordination disorders: The dog storms, falls down or has difficulty orienting yourself.
- Trembling and muscle cramps: the nervous system is overexcited.
- Apathy and fatigue: The dog looks at the same time and sleepy.
- Breathing problems: In severe cases, breathing can become flat and slow.
- Koma: With very high alcoholosis, the dog can fall into a coma.
- Death: In the worst case, alcohol poisoning can lead to death.
What to do if the dog has drunk alcohol?
If you suspect that the dog has drunk alcohol, it is important to act immediately. Contact a veterinarian or an veterinary clinic immediately. The faster the treatment takes place, the better the chances of recovery. Don't try to treat the dog yourself. In dogs, alcohol can lead to serious long-term damage, such as liver and kidney damage, neurological damage and impairment of the cardiovascular system.
How can you prevent alcohol poisoning?
- Keep alcoholic drinks and food outside the range of dogs. Make sure there are no glasses or bottles that the dog could drink from.
- Do not leave alcoholic drinks unattended. Even small quantities can be dangerous for dogs.
- Never give your dog alcoholic drinks. Not even for fun or as a “reward”.
- Pay attention to food that could contain alcohol. Some desserts, sauces or marinades can contain alcohol.
Alcohol is a serious danger to dogs. It is important that dog owners are aware of the risks and take all necessary precautions to prevent alcohol poisoning. If you suspect that your dog has drunk alcohol, look for immediately veterinary help on. (Stefan Richter)