I wanted to correct some information that was presented yesterday,
raisins are extremely toxic to dogs. Therefore, they should not be
dispensed/consumed. Someone on the form posted they are "toxic in large
quantities", this is incorrect. Consumption of grapes and raisins can
produce acute renal failure with anuria. A mycotoxin is suspected to
be involved. The estimated toxic dose of grapes is 0.32 oz/kg and for
raisins 11-30g/kg (per mass of the canine). The most common
pathological finding is proximal renal tubular necrosis. Most symptoms
of a raisin toxicity is vomiting and diarrhea. This can occur within a
few hours of ingestion. Along with weakness, lethargy, increased water
consumption and abdominal pain. Renal failure can occur within 48
hours. A CBC may reveal increases in BUN, creatinine, phosphorus, and
calcium.

Works Cited:

McKnight, Katrina (February 2005). "Grape and Raisin Toxicity in Dogs"
(PDF). Veterinary Technician: 135--136. Retrieved 2007-02-13.

"Food Hazards: Raisins/grapes". The Merck Veterinary Manual. 2006.

Eubig P, Brady M, Gwaltney-Brant S, Khan S, Mazzaferro E, Morrow C
(2005). "Acute renal failure in dogs after the ingestion of grapes or
raisins: a retrospective evaluation of 43 dogs (1992-2002)". Journal
of Veterinary Internal Medicine 19 (5): 663--74.

Sincerely,

Kris Church LVT
Co-Director
The Richmond Ferret Rescue League
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http://www.RichmondFerretRescueLeague.org

[Posted in FML 6509]