The Dangers of Alcohol Consumption in Dogs

Booze and canines are not a good mix, primarily because our furry friends lack the crucial enzymes required to efficiently metabolise alcohol. When humans consume it, enzymes break it down into less harmful substances. Our furry family members lack these enzymes in sufficient quantities, making their bodies ill-equipped to process it effectively. 

Even the smallest amount can wreak havoc on a dog's delicate digestive system. Unlike humans, whose bodies can handle moderate alcohol consumption, dogs are highly susceptible to poisoning. This occurs because the alcohol remains in their bloodstream for a prolonged period due to the absence of key metabolic enzymes. Even a small amount can quickly escalate into a life-threatening situation for your four legged friend.  

It's important to be mindful of your surroundings and take proactive measures to prevent your beloved pets from accessing your drink. By staying informed and attentive, you can help safeguard your beloved canine companions from the potentially devastating effects of poisoning. 

Prevention is the best form of defence when it comes to keeping our furry companions safe from poisoning. You should never leave drinks unattended where dogs can access them. Always keep an eye on your beverage, especially in social settings. All it takes is someone popping to the bathroom and leaving their drink on the side for your curious pooch to go over and have a sniff.  

Consider the environment before bringing your dog along. Bars, parties, and other events where alcohol is prevalent may not be suitable for your pet. Not only can they be overwhelming but if it’s a busy environment where your pup will wander around freely, they may do better left at home. Beer gardens will usually require dogs to stay on lead which can help you to keep them safe.  

You should make sure any bins containing bottles or cans have secure lids to prevent curious noses from getting into trouble. Keep it stored safely out of reach in cabinets or in the fridge, especially if it’s been opened. Dogs are notorious for their ability to sniff out treats, so it's essential to keep potentially harmful substances well out of their reach. 

Recognising the signs of alcohol poisoning in dogs is crucial for prompt intervention and treatment. If you suspect that your dog has consumed some and is displaying any of these symptoms, seek veterinary assistance immediately. 

If you suspect that your canine companion has consumed alcohol, don't hesitate. Contact your vet or the nearest emergency vet clinic immediately. Time is of the essence in cases of poisoning so be sure to act fast instead of just monitoring them to see how they go. Your vet may recommend inducing vomiting to expel the fluid from your dog's system before it's absorbed into the bloodstream. Intravenous fluids may be administered to prevent dehydration and flush out toxins to help support them.  Medications may be used to stabilise your pup’s heart rate and blood pressure. In severe cases, hospitalisation may be necessary for close monitoring and treatment so they can be sure they’re making improvements.  

Even the tiniest quantities of alcohol pose a grave threat to dogs, potentially becoming fatal if not treated quickly. To protect your furry friend, it's important to prevent access to it by securely storing it and exercising caution in environments where it's easily accessible. If you suspect that your dog has ingested alcohol, don't delay and seek veterinary assistance immediately for faster treatment.  

You should always exercise caution when bringing your pup to places where alcohol is present, and maintain constant vigilance to ensure their safety. Don’t be afraid to restrict them to staying on the lead if the environment isn’t safe for them to be left alone in. By remaining vigilant and proactive, you can help keep your beloved pet out of harm's way and ensure their well-being. When it comes to your dog's safety, it's always better to be safe than sorry. To give your pooch something to do and keep them distracted while there are tempting things around, visit us in store and online.