For many, pets are such valued companions that it's easy to forget they're not people. When it comes to the food you give them, it's essential to remember that your pets can’t eat some foods made for humans; this can harm them. The animal care specialists at Dells Animal Hospital, a pet hospital in the Wisconsin Dells area, offer this list of foods that can be harmful to pets:

• Alcohol: Alcohol isn't so great for humans, and it turns out it can be quite harmful to pets as well. It can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, central nervous system depression, and breathing problems, and may even lead to a coma or death.
• Chocolate And Other Products With Caffeine: While chocolate is a delicious treat for humans, it can cause serious issues when ingested by pets. Vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, tremors, and seizures can result, and ingestion can ultimately prove fatal.

• Grapes And Raisins: Grapes and raisins have been shown to cause kidney failure in dogs. The exact toxin behind this effect isn't yet known.
• Macadamia Nuts: These nuts can be toxic to dogs, causing weakness, depression, vomiting, and tremors. Symptoms typically present themselves within 12 hours of ingestion and can last for up to two days.
• Xylitol: This sweetener is found in products such as gum and toothpaste. It can cause insulin release in your pets, which can result in liver failure.

If your pets accidentally ingest any of these foods, it's important to take them to a veterinary hospital right away or to contact the ASPCA Animal Control Poison Center.

Offering the best in animal care, Dells Animal Hospital has been serving the Wisconsin Dells community for over 50 years. Catering to cats, dogs, and small animals, this pet hospital is staffed by a team of specialists dedicated to ensuring that your beloved animal companions get the finest in care. Learn more about Wisconsin's best veterinary hospital by calling (608) 235-7301, or by visiting Dells Animal Hospital online.