There are other dangers pet owners need to be aware of
Easter is synonymous with sweet treats – biscuits, hot cross buns, Simnel cake and chocolates – but dog owners should be wary before sharing their snacks with their four-legged friends.
Most dog owners know chocolate is toxic to dogs, and will be taking great care this Easter to keep the chocolate eggs well out of reach. But many pet owners may not be aware that hot cross buns, which contain raisins, sultanas, and currants, are also highly dangerous to dogs.
These dried fruits, along with fresh grapes, can all cause gut and kidney problems if ingested. Dogs can become extremely poorly, and sometimes even die, after eating them.
The PDSA reports that “poisonings tend to be most common around festive times, when the fruits are readily available in foods such as Christmas cake, hot cross buns, cookies and chocolate”.
A spokesman from Kennel Store, a company specialising in dog wellbeing, said: “Dried fruits like raisins, sultanas and currants, all found in hot cross buns, are extremely toxic to dogs. Consumption could lead to severe illness and sometimes death if not treated promptly.
“These dried fruits contain compounds like tartaric acid, which can cause kidney damage, even in small amounts. If your dog gets hold of a hot cross bun, it’s crucial to get them to the vet immediately.”
What makes these dried fruits even more dangerous is that, unlike chocolate, which has clear guidelines on toxic amounts, the effects of raisins, currants, and sultanas on dogs are unpredictable. A small amount could be toxic or even fatal to one dog, while another might show no symptoms at all.
If your dog accidentally gets hold of a hot cross bun this Easter, the Kennel Store advises: “Take them to the vet immediately. The vet may induce vomiting, give fluid therapy to support kidney function, and closely monitor the dog. In more serious cases, your dog may need to be hospitalised for ongoing care.”
How to keep your dog safe
- Always keep chocolate, hot cross buns, and dried fruit out of reach in a high-up cupboard. Don’t leave any leftovers on the side or tables; even well-trained dogs sometimes can’t resist a sweet treat!
- Do your research before feeding your dog any human food; even things like garlic and onions can be harmful to dogs, so it’s safer to be sure.
- Train your dog to have good manners around food, but don’t rely on training alone. Accidents happen, so make sure food is always out of reach, and teach family members not to share unsafe treats.
