It is now known that grapes and raisins can induce acute kidney failure in dogs. Toxicologists have not yet identified the toxic component or the mechanism by which grapes and raisins act upon the kidneys. It is well-documented that kidney failure can occur rapidly after ingestion of these foods. Researchers initially thought that perhaps pesticide residue was to blame. However, there have been cases of acute renal failure in dogs that have ingested homegrown grapes to which no chemicals had been applied. Although you should not panic if your pet ingests 1 or 2 grapes, we are recommending that pets not be fed grapes or raisins at all. If your dog eats grapes or raisins in large numbers, you should contact a veterinarian for further instruction even if the pet is not acting sick. |
