As you would know, owning a pet in general is a mega responsibility. As a rule of thumb, you should carefully examine some of these responsibility and their cost implications before beginning your pet journey.
Labrador Retriever, like every other animal and pets, can be vulnerable to a handful of common things that could post potential harm to their health and life in general. Some of these potential can be avoided were owners are paying close attention to their pets.
There are three common reasons, responsible for deaths in most Labrador Retriever. These includes;
Old age:
As with all living organisms, a Labrador Retriever will eventually die of natural causes as it reaches the end of its lifespan. And by ‘end of its lifespan’, we are talking about 10-12 years in most cases.
Disease:
Labradors, like all dogs, are susceptible to a variety of diseases and health conditions that can ultimately be fatal if left untreated. Some of the most common diseases that can affect Labradors include cancer, heart disease, and hip dysplasia.
This is one of the main reason while all dogs should have a routine health checkup with a Vet doctor. Just like human, animals should have medical plans, too. This will help earlier detection of health issues and diseases that may be fatal when not given early treatment.
Accidents:
Labradors, like all dogs, are also at risk of accidents that can result in injury or death. These may include things like being hit by a car, drowning, or ingesting toxic substances.
Apart from the above, there are other common things that could post harmful threats to the health of your Labrador(s). Identifying and avoiding them could go a long way in preserving the health of your Labs, thereby helping them to live longer.
In this article, we will be looking at twenty (20) of the most common things that can potentially lead to the death of your Labrador Retriever. The aim is to help you know some of these common things, and how to avoid them. It will give a most healthier environment to your Lab, and thereby prolonging their life.
20 common things that kills Labrador Retrievers
1. Chocolate:
As human, having a healthy relation with Chocolate is beneficial, as it increases heart health. Well, this is not the case with dogs, including a Labrador Retriever.
This is because chocolate contains a compound called theobromine, which is toxic to dogs and can be fatal when consumed in large doses.
Avoid chocolate as much as possible. Dogs in general are not able to effectively digest theobromine content found in Chocolate. If your dog eats chocolate, you should monitor them closely and seek veterinary attention if they show any symptoms.
2. Grapes and raisins:
This is very important, dog should not be given Grapes or raisins: This is because the fruits can cause kidney failure in dogs, including a Lab. Note that quantity is inconsequential here. Even a small amounts can be dangerous to their health.
Unfortunately, research is yet to point out exactly which substance is causing this reaction. But it is even the more reason why it should avoided at all cost, because when the cause of a problem is known, it is as well as 50% solved.
3. Onions and garlic:
Don’t give Onions and garlic to your Labrador Retriever, or any kind of Dog. Onions and garlic are toxic to dogs and can cause damage to their red blood cells, leading to anemia.
Even small amounts can be harmful them, so it is best to avoid giving them to dogs. If a dog has ingested onions or garlic, contact a veterinarian immediately.
4. Avocados:
While avocado flesh is generally safe for dogs to eat, the pit and skin can be dangerous if ingested. The pit can cause blockages in the dog’s digestive tract and the skin and leaves contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Avocados contain persin, which can cause vomiting and diarrhea in dogs.
Additionally, some dogs may be allergic to avocados. Therefore, it’s important to remove the pit and skin and give avocado to your dog only in small amounts, as a treat and not as a regular part of their diet. If you notice any adverse reactions, such as vomiting or diarrhea, stop giving them avocado and consult your veterinarian.
5. Alcohol:
Alcohol is toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems if consumed. Even small amounts can cause vomiting, diarrhea, difficulty breathing, coma, and even death. The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount of alcohol consumed and the size of the dog.
Alcohol affects a dog’s liver and brain, and can cause serious organ damage and even death. If you suspect that your dog has consumed alcohol, it is important to seek immediate veterinary care. It is important to keep all alcoholic beverages out of reach of dogs, and your beloved Labrador Retriever is not an exception.
6. Xylitol:
Xylitol is a sugar substitute that is commonly used in sugar-free gum, candy, and other products. However, it is highly toxic to dogs and can cause a rapid release of insulin, leading to hypoglycemia (low blood sugar).
Signs of xylitol poisoning in dogs include vomiting, loss of coordination, and loss of consciousness. If you suspect that your dog has ingested a product containing xylitol, you should seek immediate veterinary care. It is important to keep all products containing xylitol out of reach of dogs.
7. Fatty foods:
Fatty foods can be harmful to dogs when consumed in excess. Some of the symptoms of a dog consuming too much fat include diarrhea, vomiting, and pancreatitis. Pancreatitis is a serious condition where the pancreas becomes inflamed and can’t function properly.
Feeding dogs a diet that is too high in fat can also lead to obesity, which can put them at risk for a number of health issues such as diabetes, joint problems and heart disease.
It’s important to feed your dog a well-balanced diet that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian for advice on the best diet for your dog. Avoid feeding table scraps or human food that is high in fat.
8. Cooked bones:
Cooked bones are generally not recommended for dogs. Cooked bones can become brittle and splinter easily, which can cause serious injury to a dog’s mouth, throat, or digestive system. Ingestion of splinters can cause blockages, lacerations, and perforations.
Recommendation: Please, do not give your dog cooked bones of any kind
Dogs should only be given raw bones, as they are more pliable and less likely to splinter. It’s important to supervise your dog while they are chewing on bones, and to choose bones that are appropriate for their size and chewing strength.
Giving your Labrador cooked bones, especially those from poultry or pork can be very dangerous as they can cause blockages and perforations in the dog’s esophagus, stomach, and intestines.
It is always better to be safe than sorry and avoid giving your dog cooked bones to chew on. If you’re unsure about what kind of bones are safe for your dog, consult with your veterinarian for guidance.
9. Moldy or spoiled foods:
Moldy or spoiled foods should never be given to dogs as they can cause serious health problems. Mold can produce toxic substances called mycotoxins, which can cause a wide range of symptoms including vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in severe cases.
Foods that have spoiled or gone bad should also not be fed to dogs. Such foods can contain bacteria such as Salmonella or E.coli that can cause food poisoning.
Moldy or spoiled foods are not good for humans, they are not good for Dogs either
Symptoms of food poisoning in a Labrador Retriever may include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, and dehydration. In severe cases, it can lead to organ failure and even death. If your dog does consume moldy or spoiled food and shows signs of illness, seek veterinary care immediately.
10. Caffeine:
Caffeine is a stimulant that can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large enough quantities. While small amounts of caffeine may not be harmful, it is best to avoid giving caffeine to dogs. Signs of caffeine toxicity in dogs include restlessness, rapid breathing, muscle tremors, and an irregular heartbeat.
Caffeine can cause restlessness, rapid breathing, heart palpitations, muscle tremors and seizures in dogs.. If you suspect that your dog has consumed a potentially toxic amount of caffeine, you should contact your veterinarian immediately.
11. Macadamia nuts:
Macadamia nuts can be toxic to dogs if consumed in large enough quantities. They can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, hyperthermia (elevated body temperature), tremors, and difficulty walking.
In severe cases, consumption of macadamia nuts can lead to muscle damage, pancreatitis, and even death. If you suspect that your Labrador Retriever has consumed macadamia nuts, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. It’s generally best to avoid giving dogs macadamia nuts, or any other type of nut, as a treat.
12. Nicotine:
It is not safe to give nicotine to a Labrador Retriever or any other animal. Nicotine is a highly toxic substance that can be fatal in small doses. Nicotine can cause vomiting, tremors, seizures and even death in dogs.
It is also a highly addictive drug that can cause a wide range of negative health effects. If you suspect that your Labrador Retriever has been exposed to nicotine, you should seek immediate veterinary care.
13. Human medications:
It is not safe to give human medications to dogs without first consulting with a veterinarian. Some medications that are safe for humans can be toxic to dogs and may cause severe side effects or even death.
Even if the medication is safe for dogs, the dosage may be different than what is appropriate for humans. Always consult with a veterinarian before giving any medication to your dog. They can advise you on the proper dosage and any potential side effects.
14. Household cleaners:
Many household cleaners contain chemicals that can be dangerous to both dogs and human if ingested. While most dogs, including Labrador Retriever can survive in environment where these cleaning substances are used, it is a different story entirely when consumed directly. Please consult your Vet if your Lab is exposed to direct consumption of household cleaners.
15. Antifreeze:
Antifreeze, also known as ethylene glycol, is highly toxic to all Labrador Retriever and dogs general. Even a small amount can be fatal if ingested. Symptoms of antifreeze poisoning in dogs include vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst and urination, abdominal pain, and muscle weakness. If a dog ingests antifreeze, it is important to seek veterinary treatment immediately.
It’s important to keep antifreeze containers securely sealed and stored out of reach of dogs, and to clean up any spills immediately. Also, try to use antifreeze products that contain propylene glycol instead of ethylene glycol, which is less toxic to animals.
If you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze, it is important to seek veterinary treatment immediately. Time is of the essence, as the symptoms may not appear for several hours after ingestion, by then it could be too late.
16. Pesticides:
Pesticides for dogs are products used to protect dogs from fleas, ticks, and other parasites. These products can come in various forms such as sprays, shampoos, collars, and oral medications. It’s important to use pesticides for dogs as directed by a veterinarian and to use only products that are specifically labeled for use on Labs.
Overuse, misuse, or wrong application of pesticides can be harmful to dogs. Some dogs may also have allergic reactions to certain pesticides, so it’s important to be aware of the potential side effects and to contact a veterinarian if any problems occur.
17. Rodenticides:
Rodenticides are pesticides that are used to control rodent populations, such as mice and rats. These products are not intended for use on dogs and can be extremely toxic if ingested. Many rodenticides contain chemicals that can cause serious health problems in Labrador Retriever, including internal bleeding, seizures, and even death. If a dog ingests a rodenticide, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately as the sooner treatment is given the better chance of recovery.
It is recommended to keep all rodenticides out of reach of pets and children. Also alternative methods of rodent control such as traps, exclusion, or habitat modification should be considered. It’s important to use these products as directed and to keep them in their original containers with the label intact, in order to ensure safe and proper use.
18. Plants:
Many plants can be toxic to dogs, including Labrador Retrievers. It’s important to be aware of the plants in and around your home, as well as any plants that your dog may come into contact with while outside.
Some common toxic plants for dogs include; but not limited to, Sago Palm, Tulip/Narcissus bulbs, Azalea/Rhododendron, Cyclamen, Lilies, Oleander, Rhubarb leaves, Tomato leaves, Nightshade etc.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested a toxic plant, it’s important to contact a veterinarian immediately. In some cases, the symptoms may not appear for several days, so it’s important to be aware of any changes in your dog’s behavior or health.
19. Hot cars:
It is not safe to leave a dog in a hot car, as the temperature inside a parked car can rise quickly and become dangerous for the animal. Labrador Retriever and Dogs in general do not sweat like humans do, so they can’t cool down as efficiently.
They can only cool themselves by panting and by releasing heat through their paws. If a dog is left in a hot car, they can suffer from heat stroke, which can be fatal. It is always best to leave a dog at home in a cool and comfortable environment when the temperature outside is high.
20. Lack of exercise:
Labrador Retrievers are a high-energy breed and require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Without enough physical activity, they may become bored and destructive, and may be at risk for obesity and related health problems.
It is important to provide Labradors with daily exercise such as walks, runs, or playtime in a secure, enclosed area. Engaging in activities such as fetch or agility training can also provide mental stimulation and help to burn off excess energy.
Conclusion
It’s important to always be aware of the potential dangers that can harm your Labrador Retriever, or any other furry friends and take the necessary precautions to keep them safe. If you suspect that your dog may have ingested something toxic, contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center right away.