PEANUT BUTTER IS NOT A TREAT FOR YOUR PRECIOUS PET
We’ve all chuckled at those movie scenes where pet owners entertain their dogs with jars of delicious peanut butter. As tempting as it may be to share this treat with your furry friend, it's essential to know that peanut butter is NOT a suitable treat for dogs. Let us explain why before your pup starts barking at us with rage.
We get it – dogs are curious and love to indulge in whatever we eat! However, it’s crucial to be mindful of their dietary needs. Unlike human physiology, our four-legged companions can't handle all human food ingredients and chemicals well, and peanut butter is one of them! Join us as we discuss the dangers behind peanut butter and explore tasty and healthy snack alternatives for our furry friends!
Canine Digestive System
So, what is the significant difference between human and canine digestive physiology? The critical divergence in digestion lies in how food particles are broken down. While humans kickstart this process in the mouth, where saliva enzymes begin their work, dogs have a different approach.
For our canines, the breakdown of food starts in the stomach and continues in the intestines. Isn't it interesting? Food particles move through a dog's digestive system, allowing our dear pups to thrive on just 2 or 3 daily meals without any trouble!
The Dangers of Peanut Butter
With this new information in mind, let's delve into why peanut butter can be unsafe for our adorable pups and why it's better to skip it as a treat.
In certain peanut butter products, one of the main ingredients is Xylitol, an artificial sweetener used to add sweetness without adding sugar. While humans can easily digest Xylitol, our furry friends aren't as equipped. In dogs, Xylitol gets absorbed into their bloodstream more rapidly, leading to a powerful release of insulin from the pancreas.
Here’s the alarming secret: Xylitol is highly toxic to dogs! This artificial sweetener can pull water into the intestines or can be fermented by the bacteria found in the canine intestines. Even a tiny amount can cause serious health problems, including low blood sugar, seizures, organ failure, and, in the worst cases, death…
Xylitol Poisoning Symptoms
If you ever suspect Xylitol poisoning, keep an eye out for these symptoms:
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Vomiting
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Decreased Activity
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Weakness
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Incoordination
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Collapse
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Seizures
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Low Blood Sugar
If you have any concerns that your dog might have consumed Xylitol, don't hesitate to take swift action and immediately bring them to your vet or an emergency animal hospital. Keep in mind that specific adverse effects, such as hypoglycemia, may not manifest right away, so your dog might need to stay hospitalized for up to 12 to 24 hours for proper medical supervision.
We empathize entirely with the fact that facing the possibility of these health complications is daunting, but being aware of potential dangers is always the wiser choice!
Healthy Snack Alternatives
Even though not every peanut butter brand has Xylitol, it's safer to be cautious and altogether avoid this treat! Instead, opt for healthier snack alternatives that will keep your pups wagging their tails with happiness!
At JerkyBons, our mission is to craft the best snacks and treats for our cherished canine companion. Every product we make is organic, nutritious, and designed to promote their overall well-being. Rest assured, all our ingredients come from local sources, supporting farmers who practice pesticide and antibiotic-free methods.
http://www.funkyfur.com.au/blog/difference-between-dog-and-human-digestive-system
https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/paws-xylitol-its-dangerous-dogs