Christmas is just around the corner, and with it come family reunions, gifts (haven't you seen our special selection for this season yet?), and, of course, feasts. At Christmas, many of us unleash our appetites, taking advantage of it being a time when foods we don't usually eat during the year proliferate. Undoubtedly, that contributes to us digging into them with such eagerness, don't you think?
For all ARISTOPETERS, ARISTODOGS are part of the family. And that's why we want them to feel Christmas in some way, to enjoy it. Of course, they realize that "something is happening," but our way of explaining what is happening to them generally translates into two things: gifts and food.
Surprising our ARISTODOG with a gift is a super important gesture of affection and recognition. Let's not forget that our ARISTODOGS get happy when they receive a reward or gratification (although their favorite reward is direct affection, as we already saw in this post). But now, be careful about doing it with Christmas foods.
It's clear that we like to integrate our ARISTODOG into everything possible (and more!), but feeding them the foods we consume can seriously harm them. That's why the College of Veterinarians of Madrid has prepared a list highlighting that ARISTODOGS should not ingest the following foods:
1. Grapes
Both fresh and when processed to make raisins, they are toxic to dogs, as they affect the functioning of their kidneys. If, at the time of the twelve chimes, we want our dog to participate, we can do it, for example, with chicken and apple treats.
2. Chocolate
Chocolate, in any of its varieties or forms, from chocolates, to turrón, to cakes and finally polvorones or marzipans in which it appears camouflaged, contains a substance called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs. To give you an idea: ingesting 100 grams of dark chocolate would have serious health consequences for a 15-kilo dog.
3. Onion
Onion contains thiosulphate, a component that destroys a dog's red blood cells. The consequences for their health, especially if they are sick or very old, are anemia, weakness, and respiratory problems. So, pay close attention if you give leftovers to your dog, in case the food in question contained chopped, sautéed, etc. onion.
4. Garlic
Dogs do not have a digestive system prepared to properly metabolize garlic. So, under no circumstances should they ingest it.
5. Shellfish
That said, just because your ARISTODOG can't eat those foods doesn't mean you can't prepare or buy them a special meal or snack so that they also feel part of the festivities that take place during these days. In ARISTOSHOP you will find a very wide range of foods for your dog, from kibble to wet food, as well as vitamin-rich foods or snacks that they will surely lick their paws for.
