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Friday, 3 August 2012

Would You Allow the Dog to Eat Nuts

By Jerry Welsh


Humans consider nuts as health foods. This favorite snacks contain high amounts of unsaturated fat, vitamins, minerals and protein. Nuts also have high fiber content. Aside from the taste, humans eat nuts because these foods are known to lower cholesterol levels. It is not uncommon for people to have nuts in their bags or in their desk as nuts are no mess foods that can instantly alleviate hunger anywhere and anytime.

With a woeful expression on the face, a dog would beg to have a bite of the food the master is eating. Pet owners would find it very hard to say no to a pet that is begging for food. Dog owners have to refuse if the pet is begging to have a taste of the nuts. Dog owners have to be aware that nuts are unsafe foods for dogs. If the dog has to be rewarded, the owner has to choose other treats as nuts are definitely not for dogs. Nuts are proven to have varying effects on dogs thus almonds, macadamia, pistachio, pecan, and walnuts must be kept away from the dog's reach.

Dogs that have eaten nuts would commonly suffer from stomach upset. Nuts are not easy to digest. Digestion could have been easier if the dog has chewed the nuts. Dogs though have the habit of gulping down food. Processing unchewed nuts would be difficult for the dog's digestive system. This is the reason why nuts would cause the dog stomach upset. Furthermore, there is a possibility that the undigested nuts would create an obstruction in the dog's intestinal tract. A surgical procedure may be necessary to remove the intestinal blockage.

Nuts are high in phosphorous content. Dogs that regularly ingest nuts would not only suffer from stomach upset but may also develop bladder stones. Pancreatitis is another health concern that can develop if the pet is allowed to eat nuts because of its high fat content. Excessively fatty foods must not be included in the dog's diet as this four legged friend that cannot tolerate fats can suffer from pancreatitis

Macadamia nuts have the most serious effect in dogs. This nut contains high levels of fat that would cause stomach upset in dogs. Just as with other nuts, macadamia is high in fat and phosphorous content dogs that frequently eat this nut can develop gall stones and suffer from pancreatitis. The most serious effect of eating macadamia nuts is temporary paralysis which is caused by an unknown toxic compound found in this nut. Macadamia nuts have an unknown toxic compound that affects the skeletal muscles so that dog would have swollen limbs and have tremors. This immensely painful condition would hamper the dog's mobility. Fortunately, this painful condition is not permanent as dogs would recover from the toxicity.




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