Alcohol poisoning

What is alcohol poisoning?

Alcohol poisoning is intoxication with ethanol, the main ingredient in alcoholic beverages such as beer, wine or schnapps. Ethanol is broken down in the body to acetaldehyde, which damages cells and disturbs the acid-base balance. Ethanol also affects the central nervous system and can cause impaired consciousness, respiratory depression and cardiovascular failure.

How does alcohol poisoning occur in dogs?

Dogs can ingest alcohol accidentally or intentionally. For example, they may lick remnants of alcoholic beverages from glasses or bottles or nibble on fermented foods such as fruit or bread. Some dog owners also intentionally give their dogs alcohol to calm or entertain them. However, this is very dangerous and should never be done.

What are the symptoms of alcohol poisoning in a dog?

Symptoms of alcohol poisoning depend on the amount of alcohol ingested, the dog's body weight, and health status. Some common poisoning symptoms in dogs include.

• Weakness and slowing of movements
• Fainting
• Vomiting of stomach contents or stomach acid alone; in rare cases, the
• Vomit may contain blood if the ethanol has corroded the stomach lining.
• Panting; the dog breathes shallowly and gasps for air
• Lethargy
• Pain in the abdominal area
• Dehydration
• Problems with urination
• In severe cases, muscle spasms, seizures, breathing problems and cardiovascular failure may also occur.

How can I help my dog?

If you suspect your dog has been drinking alcohol, you should see a veterinarian immediately. The sooner treatment is started, the better the chances of a full recovery. The veterinarian will try to remove the alcohol from the gastrointestinal tract (e.g., by inducing vomiting or administering activated charcoal) and balance the dog's fluid, electrolyte and acid-base balance (e.g., through IV fluids). In addition, the circulation is stabilized and respiration is supported (e.g., through oxygen administration or ventilation).

How can I prevent alcohol poisoning in my dog?

Alcohol is very dangerous for dogs and can lead to severe poisoning. Even small amounts can cause symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, ataxia, respiratory distress or unconsciousness. In the worst cases, alcohol can lead to the dog's death.

To avoid alcohol poisoning in your dog, take the following steps:

• Store alcoholic beverages out of your dog's reach. Also watch out for other sources of alcohol such as baker's yeast, mouthwash or disinfectant.
• Clean up spilled alcohol immediately and dispose of empty bottles or jars safely.
• Never leave alcoholic beverages unattended. Your dog may be curious and lick or drink it.
• Make guests aware that alcohol is toxic to dogs and ask them not to feed leftovers or treats with alcohol to your dog.

To prevent alcohol poisoning in your dog, make sure he doesn't have access to alcoholic beverages or fermented foods. Always keep these out of his reach and dispose of them safely. Never give your dog alcohol on purpose - there are other ways to soothe him.