The Heritage Foundation hosted an event titled “What Americans Need to Know About Abortion Survivors” on Thursday. The hour long panel featured Andrew Bath‚ Executive Vice President‚ General Counsel‚ from the Thomas More Society‚ Dr. John Bruchalski‚ founder of Tepeyac OB-GYN‚ and Melissa Ohden‚ founder and CEO of Abortion Survivors Network. The trio‚ via questions from The Daily Signal’s Mary Margaret Olohan‚ spoke about late term abortions and how they not only are still happening despite the media and the left attempting to cover them up‚ but also how absolutely horrific these procedures are for both mothers and babies. Dr. Bruchalski talked about his past experience being an abortion provider and how he made the shift from abortion to life-affirming medicine.  He recounted one evening in his career where in one room he helped a woman give birth and in the next room over‚ he conducted an abortion procedure. “That second patient‚” he said‚ talking about the baby of the mother in the abortion room‚ “lived.” What he said next was shocking and heartbreaking but exposed the reality of what many abortion providers‚ himself at the time‚ think.  “What did I do at that moment? I wanted to suffocate the squeaks of the child that I caught in a pail because no one wanted it‚” he said. “Out of a false compassion‚ I put a covering over the child’s head‚” he said before explaining that he had to reposition the baby’s tiny head in order to get them to suffocate faster.  I don’t think there was a dry eye in the auditorium as event attendees were reminded of the absolute vile truths of abortion. You could’ve heard a pin drop in the room at that point. Later on in his career‚ students and mentors told Dr. B that he was “better than this” and then the shift from abortion to life-affirming medicine “became clear.” Ohden grabbed his hand and said‚ “what you’re looking at when I reach over and grab Dr. B’s hand‚ he‚ ended the lives of children just like me‚ and yet‚ I have the great opportunity here to sit with him today and say‚ this is what redemption looks like. This is what restoration looks like. This conversion is possible.” Everyone in the audience had chills recognizing how there is hope in this battle. Ohden then shared her own story of how her birth mother was coerced into aborting her. Typically it takes roughly three days after a woman’s child is injected with saline before the woman goes into labor. For Ohden‚ it took five days before her mother delivered her. Shockingly‚ Ohden was born alive. She was not given immediate medical care and was told that she was set to be like other babies who were born alive after abortions and placed in “buckets of formaldehyde” in a utility closet. By God’s grace‚ a “brave nurse defied the orders to leave” Ohden and brought her to the NICU. A neonatologist estimated that Ohden’s birth mother was roughly 31 weeks along when she sought an abortion.  Ohden’s story isn’t rare. Bath mentioned that of the late-term-abortions‚ yes‚ the ones the left claims never happen‚ “up to 50% are born alive” and many or most are left to die slowly‚ some even in buckets of formaldehyde or by suffocation like Dr. B and Ohden talked about.  Olohan then asked‚ “Why would we be told by media‚ activists and lawmakers that this isn’t happening when we know that‚ in fact‚ it is?” “This is ideologically driven‚” Dr. Bruchalski said. “This is abortion on demand” he added before explaining that even when a child comes out alive‚ it’s “still not wanted” hence why the left makes it their every mission to cover up‚ erase and dismiss these types of stories. Ohden focused on this point when she said that she wishes she could say that when she was born alive the “medical professionals saw my inherent dignity and value‚” but that wasn’t the case and she noted that she‚ along with other children who were accidentally born alive‚ are called the “dreaded complication of abortion.” Dr. B emphasized that real physicians need to stop deciding “who lives and who dies.” Olohan later asked Bath to talk about some of the laws that we currently have in place that aim to help children and why they aren’t being enforced. He mentioned one that has been introduced in congress which would require that doctors provide care to babies born alive during abortions “to the same degree” that they’d care for a preemie child. “Last year‚ all but three democrats voted against this law‚” Bath noted before calling on “prayer support” and “congress to act.” To conclude‚ Dr. B explained that we need to “stop seeing children as sexually transmitted diseases that need to be eradicated” and that we need to “stop being on the walkway where you are choosing who lives and who dies.” In all‚ the event was incredibly moving. The real life scenarios‚ the statistics and the realities of abortion stuck with audience members. I hope and pray that those on the left are as moved by this as attendees were and make that same shift Dr. B made from being pro-abortion to becoming life-affirming.   

Liberal bias with a concentrated whiff of transatlantic condescension‚ courtesy of a fundraising email from the ultra-left UK-based newspaper The Guardian. Eyeing the liberal market in the United States during an election year‚ the outlet is tapping potential donors in their readership through a most condescending email package‚ under the signature of its “Southeast reporter” on “politics and democracy” reporter George Chidi: I cover politics and democracy for the Guardian from down here in Atlanta. My beat is the southern states – the heart of both Trump politics and far-right extremism. My interest between now and the election is in protecting democracy from the forces threatening to destroy it. It’s well established that The Guardian isn’t exactly striving for objectivity or balance – more like the PBS/NPR market of easily scared liberals – but the email really puts their condescending stance down in black and white. What I’m seeing down here‚ in the blood-reddest parts of these states‚ is conservative voters shutting off from reality‚ consumed with far-right media outrage. It’s a machine telling them that we can’t solve problems with civil conversation anymore. Don’t worry‚ Chidi will ride to the rescue to assuage the gun-crazed Southern savages. Just by talking to folks on their doorsteps‚ I am showing them that there's a way to have a conversation about politics that does not end with “grab a gun.” When I show up somewhere like the Appalachian territory of South Carolina and say I’m from the Guardian‚ I can show people that what they’re hearing on Fox or Newsmax or OAN isn’t true. They can see with their two eyeballs that the Guardian is here doing honest reporting and providing it for free to everyone. The Guardian is in a unique position because we rely on a revenue stream that can't be corrupted by the same forces that are pushing the media narrative on the far right. The paper’s strategy for fighting the “far right” media is apparently to propagate its own wacky far-left idea of “journalism.” A few examples here‚ here‚ and here. I am out here in these places because I believe it is incredibly important for everyone concerned about the far right – in the United States and across the world – to understand why people here think the way they do. I am also hearing a rise in extreme rhetoric‚ and it’s important we document it now‚ because we don't know what's going to happen in the election or in the days and weeks following. After all that extreme condescension‚ chiding Chidi had the nerve to suggest: ….If you're a political conservative and you're reading the Guardian‚ you should still be able to see the truth reflected in the words we publish. The Guardian has progressive values‚ but that doesn't mean that we compromise on journalistic integrity. I think it's quite the opposite. It's an upfront acknowledgment‚ and people I meet appreciate the honesty. The letter ended with more guff about how the left-wing British rag was protecting democracy in the United States. If we want to protect democracy‚ we have to keep getting out into communities where people don’t encounter the kind of reporting the Guardian does. I really believe that the work reporters do on the ground– talking to people across the US and then providing free‚ trustworthy reporting-- is the way we keep our democracy safe. You can support that work by giving a dollar or more now. Thanks for reading.

Click to Skip Ahead Safe Nuts Dangerous Nuts How to Feed Your Hamster Nuts While people keep several species of hamsters‚ the Golden or Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) is the most common one for pets and laboratories. The Syrian hamsters we have as pets today are all thought to descend from two litters of hamsters that were collected from the wild in 1930 and 1971. Wild hamsters are omnivores that eat various foods‚ from insects to seeds and nuts.  Our list below includes some foods that technically aren’t nuts‚ but people tend to group them with this snack food. So‚ what nuts can hamsters safely eat? Let’s find out. The 8 Nuts Safe for Hamsters to Eat 1. Cashews Image Credit: 271-EAK MOTO‚ Shutterstock The cashew is actually a seed‚ but it’s also a popular addition to mixed nuts. It is high in protein and several vital nutrients‚ including calcium‚ potassium‚ and magnesium. Its vitamin content is negligible. It’s also high in fat and calories‚ a common theme for this group of foods. They are usually sold shelled‚ eliminating that health risk. 2. Hazelnuts Hazelnuts‚ also known as filberts‚ are a popular snack food and ingredient in cooking and baking. Despite the name‚ they are fruits of the tree of the same name. They also have a higher fat and calorie count than our last entry. That makes this one a treat for special occasions only. They come in various cultivars and flavors. We suggest skinning them before offering any to your pet. 3. Macadamia Nuts Image Credit: sunnysun0804‚ Pixabay Macadamia nuts are an anomaly on our list. Toxicity has only been documented for dogs.1 They are native to Australia‚ although the ones you buy at the store are likely from Hawaii. This food has even more fat and calories than the last two. They also contain less protein and lower amounts of many vital nutrients. You’ll likely see shelled nuts at the store since they can be a difficult one to crack. 4. Peanuts Peanuts aren’t nuts but legumes. However‚ that takes nothing away from their great taste. Many dog owners give their pups peanut butter as a treat. We don’t recommend doing so for hamsters because of the concentrated fat content. However‚ peanuts are a rich source of potassium and phosphorus‚ with decent amounts of protein and vitamins.  Never offer your hamster a salted or sugary peanut or one with any additional flavorings.  If you do opt to give your furry friend a peanut‚ one plain nut once a week is enough. 5. Pecans Image Credit: pictavio‚ Pixabay The buttery taste of pecans comes from their high fat content on par with macadamia nuts. They have a scant amount of water and over 73% fat from their rich oil. Nevertheless‚ their great taste makes them a popular choice for baked goods. We suggest breaking halves in two to cut down on calories. They should remain a rare treat. 6. Pine Nuts Pine nuts are the kernels extracted from the seeds of various species of pine trees. They are also another trade-off species‚ providing copious amounts of nutrition with fat and calories tagging along for the ride. However‚ their relatively small size makes it easier for portion control. Proper storage is imperative with this food‚ as it can become rancid. 7. Pistachios Image Credit: Alexas_Fotos‚ Pixabay Pistachios are related to cashews. They are a potassium powerhouse with a 100 gram serving containing just under 1g of potassium. We recommend shelling them before offering them to your hamster to reduce choking hazard potential. We also suggest opting for the tan-colored nuts instead of those dyed red to avoid staining your pet’s fur. The colors are non-toxic and more annoying than anything else. 8. Walnuts Walnuts are truly a multi-purpose nut. Snacking and baking are popular uses. In addition‚ the trees produce excellent lumber‚ and the shells make an attractive stain. We recommend shelling walnuts before giving them to your pet hamster. You can easily break the meat into small pieces for a treat. While not toxic to hamsters and cats‚ black walnuts are poisonous to horses and dogs. The 2 Nuts Not Safe for Hamsters to Eat 1. Almonds Image Credit: t_watanabe‚ Pixabay Almonds are edible and safe for your hamster‚ as long as you’re using the sweet variety‚ not the bitter variety. Bitter almonds which are technically drupes‚ like peaches‚ contain cyanogenic glycosides. These chemicals can provide the raw materials for hydrogen cyanide to release inside the unfortunate animal. Bitter almonds contain 42 times more of these compounds than sweet almonds.2 2. Any Fruit Pit or Seed This same caution about cyanogenic glycosides applies to many fruit pits or seeds‚ including apples‚ cherries‚ peaches and apricots. The toxins exist within these plant parts. A lethal dose of hydrogen cyanide is as little as 50-300 mg in humans‚ depending on body weight.  The concentration in a single pit or seed varies from 0.85mg/gram of apricot kernels‚ to 0.6mg/gram of apple seeds‚ to 1 mg/gram of bitter almonds‚ so even a tiny amount of these pits or seeds can be fatal for a tiny hamster. How to Feed Your Hamster Nuts Hamsters are hoarders. That’s worth remembering since your pet will undoubtedly like nuts. They’ll taste like candy to them. They will probably opt for them if given a choice between nuts and their regular diet. Many hamsters will cache their food in their burrows. It makes evolutionary sense to have a ready source of food available. It also reduces their chances of predation since they can venture outside less often. All the nuts on our list are relatively high in calories and fat‚ although many are also quite nutritious. Nevertheless‚ none are complete and balanced and are not a substitute for your pet’s regular diet. These reasons mean you should reserve nuts as a special treat for your pet hamster‚ despite their place in the diets of their wild counterparts. Those animals are likely more active and working off the extra calories. Hamsters can also easily become obese and suffer from the associated health risks. Therefore‚ we recommend giving your pet only one nut at a time‚ only once a week. You can use it to bond with your hamster or as a training aid. For example‚ you can offer a quarter of a nut during outside-cage playtime to foster a positive association with human interaction. Image credit: Anna Sobolewska‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Seeds and nuts are a tasty part of a hamster’s diet‚ both as pets and in the wild. However‚ these foods are naturally high in fat‚ protein‚ and calories (to give a new plant a good start in life if it germinates). Therefore‚ it’s imperative to limit them in your rodent’s daily intake. While they’ll undoubtedly enjoy them‚ your hamster may also hoard them. An occasional treat alongside a good quality pellet-based hamster food will ensure your hamster has everything it needs‚ but not too much. Sources Nutrition Reviews Article Medical News Today Article CDC ToxProfiles PDF Chewy: What Can Hamsters Eat? Hamsters-UK: Syrian Hamsters USDA Food Database: Nutrients USDA Food Database: Nutrients USDA Food Database: Nutrients ASPCA: Black Walnut Merck Vet Manual: Hamsters Featured Image Credit: polya_olya‚ Shutterstock The post What Nuts Can Hamsters Eat? Vet-Reviewed Safe &; Dangerous Types appeared first on Pet Keen.

Hamsters are gluttonous furballs that won’t turn up their noses at a crumb of food. So‚ it’s only natural that you want to share your favorite snack with your chubby-cheeked friend. Plus‚ isn’t this the perfect opportunity to bond with your spirited little rodent? Unfortunately‚ pretzels are not good treats for hamsters. In fact‚ what makes pretzels so delicious for our taste buds could be disastrous for these little critters. Let’s take a closer look at why hamsters and pretzels don’t mix. What Are the Main Ingredients of Pretzels? Homemade pretzels are typically made from dough that consists of flour‚ water‚ yeast‚ and salt. Variations might include additional flavorings‚ such as cheese or spices. Commercial pretzels often contain various preservatives for shelf-life longevity‚ including salt‚ vegetable oil‚ and corn syrup. Image Credit: NoirChocolate‚ Shutterstock Why Should Hamsters Avoid Munching on Pretzels? Although pretzels are not inherently toxic to hamsters‚ they have no place in their diet. These rodents have specific dietary needs that must be met to ensure their well-being‚ and pretzels lack any of those essential nutrients. For example: Pretzels are high in carbs and fats. Pretzels will lead to weight gain over time due to the carbohydrates and fats present. The ingredients may sometimes also be difficult for hamsters to digest‚ leading to gastrointestinal upset. They don’t add any nutritive value. Pretzels lack the essential nutrients that hamsters require to thrive. They are primarily made from refined carbohydrates‚ offering little in terms of vitamins‚ minerals‚ and protein. Added seasonings may contain toxic ingredients‚ such as garlic and onion powder. According to the Pet Poison Helpline‚ these ingredients are toxic to many species‚ including cats and dogs. You should not give them to smaller and more delicate creatures like hamsters. Eating too many pretzels could lead to diabetes. According to a study‚ hamsters that consumed high amounts of saturated fat and calories developed diabetes.1 The researchers also found that the hamsters developed other health issues commonly associated with diabetes in humans‚ such as kidney disease and problems with blood vessels. Alternatives to Pretzels While a tiny bite of pretzel is unlikely to wreak havoc on your hamster‚ it’s better to choose vet-approved treats like: Seeds Nuts Unsalted popcorn Vegetables Fruits Image Credit: apple deng‚ Pixabay What’s the Best Diet for Hamsters? The best diet for hamsters consists of a commercial pelleted rodent mix‚ a few fresh veggies‚ and an occasional piece of fruit. Free access to Timothy hay for bedding and to munch on is also a good idea. Here’s a breakdown of each component of a healthy pelleted rodent diet: 15–20% protein 35–40% carbs 4–5% fat 5-10% fiber That said‚ make sure you don’t overfeed your hamster. A good guideline is about 2 tablespoons of pellets and 1 teaspoon of fresh vegetables per day. You can also seek advice from your vet to adjust your hamster’s diet based on their size‚ age‚ and overall health. Also‚ don’t overdo it with fresh foods. While veggies and fruits can provide variety and nutrients‚ they must be given in moderation to avoid upsetting your rodent’s delicate digestive system. Diarrhea is a common health issue in hamsters. Introduce new foods slowly‚ and observe how your hamster reacts to them. Should I Give Vitamins and Supplements to My Hamster? No‚ hamsters do not require extra vitamins when fed a proper diet. A good commercial pelleted rodent food should be nutritionally complete and contain all the vitamins that they need. Final Thoughts While it’s tempting to share a pretzel with your little pet‚ it’s best to hold back. Pretzels themselves aren’t toxic to hamsters‚ but they offer little nutritional value and can potentially cause digestive issues. Instead‚ focus on providing your rodent with a high-quality commercial pelleted diet‚ a few fresh vegetables‚ and fruits or seeds as occasional treats. Don’t worry‚ your furry friend won’t hold a grudge against you for not sharing your favorite snack with them! Sources https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/695896/nutrients https://www.msdvetmanual.com/all-other-pets/hamsters/disorders-and-diseases-of-hamsters#v3227825 Featured Image Credit: Pierre Gui‚ Unsplash The post Can Hamsters Eat Pretzels? Vet-Reviewed Facts &; Safety Guide appeared first on Pet Keen.

Grooming and bathing are vital parts of pet care for many animals‚ particularly dogs. You might also think it’s necessary with ones that live in cages‚ such as hamsters. After all‚ you undoubtedly clean out their cage regularly‚ so why not do the same for your pet’s fur? In the wild‚ hamsters may get wet. However‚ bathing is not necessary for a self-grooming animal like this rodent and could even be dangerous if not done correctly. The Wild Hamster The Golden or Syrian Hamster (Mesocricetus auratus) lives in the open steppe habitat of Turkey and Syria. The seasonal climate has hot‚ dry summers and cold‚ wet winters. Summers can approach 100℉ or higher‚ with the cooler months getting down to 50℉ or less. Precipitation is low‚ with annual totals of around 13 inches. These temperature extremes‚ combined with moisture‚ can create challenging conditions for wild hamsters. Consequently‚ these animals evolved ways to survive. In cold temperatures or when food is scarce‚ they can go into a state of torpor (an involuntary state of reduced mental or motor activity). This is a survival technique in order to conserve resources to handle these circumstances. The takeaway message is that these animals survive because they can slow their metabolism and lower their body temperature to wait out adverse environmental pressure‚ like cold and wetness. That reduces their risk of the consequences of venturing out of their burrows unnecessarily. This is not a state that we want our pet hamsters to enter.  So‚ what would happen if a hamster got wet? Image Credit: Mary Swift‚ Shutterstock The Risks of a Hamster Getting Wet If you’ve ever been outside on a chilly‚ rainy fall day‚ you are keenly aware of how uncomfortable it is. It might even feel colder to you than a winter day. It’s the combination of wet and cold that makes you feel that way. It’s the same with hamsters‚ only they have a thick coat of fur that also gets wet. So giving your hamster a bath‚may trigger your hamster to go into torpor. This can be scary for hamster owners as hamsters in torpor can look like they’ve passed away. The other concerns lie with the animal’s ability to cope. It’s worth noting that most of our pet hamsters descended from three littermates caught in 1930.1 There isn’t a lot of genetic variability in them‚ although selective breeding for various colors exists. Wild hamsters evolved to  escape unfavorable weather conditions ‚ leaving animals with little genetic capability to cope with getting cold and wet. A wet hamster isn’t going to “catch a cold.” Instead‚ the stress can leave the rodent at risk for bacterial infections‚ including respiratory ailments like pneumonia. Remember that these animals don’t like change‚ whether it’s their food or the sudden shock of getting wet. That’s not unexpected with a prey species. Of course‚ a stressed pet is also more likely to bite and scratch. Image Credit: Alex Milan‚ Shutterstock Grooming Your Hamster We mentioned that hamsters are self-groomers. They do an excellent job of keeping themselves clean‚ not unlike a cat. You should comb long-haired varieties to keep them mat-free. You may also have to trim your pet’s nails occasionally. However‚ baths are not necessary and are potentially dangerous for your hamster.  Keeping up with routine cage maintenance and ensuring water spills or soiled bedding is removed daily will help your hamster remain clean. If your hamster gets wet by accident i.e. the water bowl toppled over‚ dry them thoroughly‚ give them extra bedding to make a cozy bed‚ and keep them in a warmer part of the house away from draughts. Keep a close eye on them over the coming days and see a veterinarian if you notice anything untoward. Final Thoughts Pet hamsters are descendants of animals that live in a dry‚ albeit harsh‚ climate. These arid conditions didn’t provide environmental stimuli for these rodents to adapt to wet conditions. Instead‚ the cold and wet encourage them to conserve resources by entering torpor‚ and avoid circumstances that could put them at a greater risk of disease and predation. Hamsters shouldn’t get wet or bathed for many of the same reasons. Sources Animal Diversity MerckVet Manual Veterinary Partner Wood Green RSPCA Syrian Hamster diseases Featured Image Credit: Vladfotograf‚ Shutterstock The post Can Hamsters Get Wet? Vet-Reviewed Safety Guide appeared first on Pet Keen.

Hamsters love nibbling on new foods‚ but it’s crucial that you research what’s safe for them to sample and what’s best avoided. For example‚ can hamsters try some fresh pear? Yes‚ pear is a crisp‚ sweet treat that’s safe and even healthy for hamsters in moderate servings. Pear packs fiber‚ vitamins‚ and minerals‚ but it also packs a lot of sugar. If you’re interested in exactly what’s in pears and what it does for your hamster‚ you’re in luck. We’ve outlined not only the nutritional content of pears for hamsters‚ but if pears can be unhealthy‚ what other fruits you can try‚ and more. Read on below for those details to get your hamster’s diet spiced up today! Nutritional Content of Pears for Hamsters Image Credit: Jonathan Mast‚ Unsplash You probably think of pear as a healthy fruit‚ and it is! Pear has several key nutrients that are healthy for both hamsters and humans‚ but it’s also notably high in sugars. For critters their size‚ just a little will get them the best nutrients while minimizing exposure to excessive sugar. Peruse some of the pear’s nutritional content below to educate yourself more closely on the subject. Nutritional Content &; Effects of Pears: Fiber: Hamsters‚ like all mammals‚ need fiber‚ and pears just happen to be rich in dietary fiber that keeps their digestive system working like a well-oiled machine. Antioxidants: Vitamin C and Beta-Carotene are known to be antioxidants.  Unlike humans‚ hamsters can make their own vitamin C‚ so supplementing it in their diet isn’t strictly necessary.  However‚ given antioxidants are thought to reduce the occurrence of some tumors‚ they are great for these little pets.2 Potassium: Potassium keeps your hamster’s muscles and circulatory system healthy and it is delivered in abundance in pears. Sugar: Pears are pretty high in natural sugars (14.3g of sugar in a small pear).  This can contribute to obesity and diabetes which hamsters can certainly suffer from‚ so they really are best  served as an occasional treat. Can Pears Be Harmful to My Hamster? Yes‚ a pear can be actively harmful to your hamster if they eat a lot of it at once or if they regularly eat it. A little won’t hurt them and can be very healthy‚ but you should also be aware of the risks that pear can pose to your hamster. Consider some of those risks below. Risks of Overfeeding Pears to Your Hamster: Obesity: Hamsters don’t need extra sugar in their diet‚ and it can make them dangerously overweight or obese if fed in excess. Digestive issues: Some hamsters are more tolerant of new foods‚ but others can suffer stomach upset or diarrhea. Choking: Large chunks of pear and seeds in the fruit can be an acute choking hazard‚ so make sure to remove those seeds and cut pears into very tiny chunks before serving. Can My Hamster Eat Canned Pears? No‚ you shouldn’t feed your hamster canned pears or any type of canned or prepackaged fruit. These fruits are almost always slathered with extra sugar‚ high fructose corn syrup‚ and other harmful preservatives that can be unhealthy for your little furry friend. Always choose fresh fruit to treat your hamster‚ washing and deseeding it very thoroughly to wash off any trace pesticides or bacteria. Image Credit: 27707‚ Pixabay What Other Fruits Can Hamsters Eat? We know now that hamsters don’t really need a lot of sugary fruits in their diets‚ but fruits are a great way to treat them to something special and healthy too. Let’s explore some other fruits you can share with your hamster‚ all while keeping moderation in mind! Fruits Good for Hamsters: Apples: Apples pack vitamin C and fiber‚ making them a good choice  for an occasional treat.  However‚ apples contain more sugar than pears‚ so moderation is absolutely key. Blueberries: Rich in fiber‚ calcium‚  vitamins‚ and antioxidants‚ a blueberry or two has some powerful benefits. Bananas: Hamsters go bananas for bananas‚ which are great sources of potassium and vitamins. Be aware that all fruits are high in natural sugars‚ so feeding small amounts a few times a week is ideal. Image Credit: Andriy Malakhovskyy‚ Shutterstock What Should Hamsters Normally Eat? Treats are great‚ but most of your hamster’s nutrition comes from ensuring they get a complete mix of all the nutrients they need to thrive. You can’t exactly simulate what they eat in the wild‚ but high-quality commercial pellet mixes keep your hamster as healthy as they can possibly be. 90% of a hamster’s diet should be their pelleted food‚ with only 10% being treats.  Treats can include vegetables‚ small amounts of fruit and even some protein like a bit of boiled egg if you’re feeling adventurous! Take a look at some of the stuff a hamster should eat to stay happy and healthy below. Hamster Staple Foods: Pellets: Pellets contain all the major nutrients your hamster needs‚ from protein to carbs and vitamins. Greens: From cereal grasses‚ hay‚ and various leafy veggies‚ a moderate portion of greens in your hamster’s diet along with pellets will help fill the gaps in their nutrient intake. Treats: Treats like sugary fruit should be less than 10% of your hamster’s diet and served in very small amounts‚ infrequently. What Do Hamsters Eat in the Wild? You might think hamsters are herbivores‚ but they’re not! In the wild‚ hamsters prefer a diet of cereal grasses‚ seeds‚ grains‚ and insects‚ and they don’t turn down the occasional frog or lizard either. In fact‚ a hamster’s diet needs to contain between 15-25% protein. In captivity‚ we try to replicate this as much as possible.  The best way to do this is with a good-quality hamster pellet which you can be sure has the correct balance of nutrition for your little fur-ball to thrive on. Image Credit: atewi‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Hamsters aren’t picky eaters and they will enjoy a tiny slice of pear once in a while. However‚ they should be getting most of what they need from their daily diet of pellets and plant matter. Choose crisp pears‚ wash them‚ remove the seeds‚ and make sure to slice them into very fine chunks before offering them to your hamster once every week or two for best results. Sources PetMD VCA Hospitals PDSA MSD Vet Manual USDA Food Database: Nutrients USDA Food Database: Nutrients Featured Image Credit: _Alicja_‚ Pixabay The post Can Hamsters Eat Pears? Vet-Approved Feeding Facts appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click to Skip Ahead Dangers of Cooked Steak Bones Dangers of Raw Steak Bones Benefits of Raw Steak Bones Safer Alternatives It’s certainly not an unknown fact that our dogs love anything to do with meat—a fat‚ juicy steak‚ a dropped hotdog‚ or a decaying carcass in the grass. They love it all! But even though they love it all‚ they shouldn’t eat certain things—like steak bones. Even though your dog might beg‚ plead‚ and sneak into the trash at 1 a.m. to eat steak bones‚ keeping them as far away as possible is in their best interest‚ especially if they are cooked. In this article‚ we will explore why steak bones‚ and any other cooked bones‚ are bad for your pooch. Dogs Shouldn’t Eat Steak Bones Raw steak bones are always a better choice than the cooked varieties. Cooked steak bones can easily splinter and become choking hazards and gastrointestinal blockers. Ingesting a steak bone can lead to expensive vet bills and even an untimely death. But‚ of course‚ that doesn’t mean that raw steak bones come without risk. When you give a dog raw meat product of any kind‚ it could infect your dog with harmful bacteria and there is still the risk of them causing an intestinal obstruction. Below‚ we will explore the consequences of giving your dog steak bones and inform you of better alternatives and safer feeding options. Image Credit: HolgersFotografie‚ Pixabay The 4 Dangers of Cooked Steak Bones Unfortunately‚ there are no benefits to cooked steak bones. When a steak bone is cooked‚ it breaks down the strength of the bone‚ making it more brittle. When the bone itself breaks apart‚ it can splinter and create sharp edges that can harm your dog. They just have far too many risk factors and complications. Plus‚ cooking the bone will deplete it of some of its vital nutrients. Dogs are much better off with bone broth as opposed to the bone itself. 1. Mouth Injury If your dog splinters a steak bone‚ it can puncture the mouth’s gums‚ tongue‚ and soft tissues‚ resulting in injury. This can lead to infection‚ which may require a round of antibiotics. Depending on the severity of the injury‚ it might require stitches or other veterinary intervention. 2. Choking Hazard If your dog swallows a splintery piece of steak bone‚ it can lodge in the throat and esophagus‚ creating an obstruction. The blockage can be partial or full‚ making it difficult or impossible for your dog to breathe properly (if blocking the windpipe). As you can imagine‚ this is a time-sensitive and life-threatening emergency. Removing a steak bone can also be difficult because these sharp pieces will prevent it from sliding out easily‚ and it might even require surgery. Image Credit: MERCURY studio‚ Shutterstock 3. Intestinal Blockage Once the dog’s body tries to digest the swallowed steak bone‚ it can have difficulty passing through the intestines. If it lodges in the intestines‚ it can cause a complete or partial blockage. The biggest danger  with intestinal blockages is that the changes are not always visible immediately. Your dog might only show mild signs of discomfort shortly before being completely debilitated. Common signs of intestinal blockages include: Vomiting Diarrhea Abdominal pain Loss of appetite Lethargy Depending on the severity of the blockage and where the bone has become stuck‚ some pass on their own‚ while others require emergency surgery. These visits can be extremely high-risk for your dog and pricey and worrying for you. Unfortunately‚ the seriousness of an intestinal blockage does lead to the loss of some beloved pets. 4. Organ Punctures If your dog doesn’t swallow a big enough piece to obstruct their throat or intestines‚ it can still cause problems for the organs the bone passes through. Tiny little shards can scratch‚ irritate‚ or puncture the intestines‚ causing severe pain and risk of peritonitis (inflammation of the lining of the abdomen).  If the boney shards manage to puncture other organs‚ other signs can be seen‚ such as internal bleeding. Signs of an internal perforation include: Fever Vomiting Diarrhea Abdominal swelling Panting Whining Lack of appetite It can be hard to distinguish the issue based on signs alone‚ as they are so similar to other issues. If you believe your dog is at risk of any issue mentioned above‚ get them to your vet immediately. The 2 Dangers of Raw Steak Bones Raw steak bones are much preferred over the cooked alternative. However‚ they come with risks of their own. 1. Foodborne Illness The biggest risk of raw steak bones is the potential for foodborne illness‚ like harmful bacteria including Listeria‚ E. coli‚ and Salmonella species.  While these bacteria may or may not cause your dog to be unwell‚ they pose a significant health risk to the humans in the household‚ especially children‚ pregnant or immuno-compromised people. When these bacteria enter the digestive tract of the dog‚ they can cause various side effects that can make your dog unwell. These signs can include: Vomiting Loss of appetite Diarrhea‚ sometimes bloody Lethargy Fever Abdominal pain Lack of coordination Shivering If you notice your dog is showing any of these signs‚ it is best to take them to the vet for assessment‚ particularly if you know they have eaten something untoward. 2. Broken Teeth Bones are extremely hard and can be brittle which means that dogs often break their teeth while chewing on raw bones.  A broken tooth is painful and requires treatment.  This is often costly and requires a general anesthetic to remove the tooth or to carry out root canal treatment. Image Credit: Sebastian Quinn‚ Shutterstock Benefits of Raw Steak Bones We would be fibbing if we said that steak bones have no nutritional value for your dog. The fact of the matter is that dogs are instinctively drawn toward meat products because they are omnivores with a strong inclination toward the meat portion of the diet. Dogs need high-quality animal proteins in their everyday lives so it is no surprise that they are attracted to steak bones. Bones contain calcium‚ magnesium‚ and phosphorus‚ so they certainly do have some nutritional benefit to dogs.  However‚ the risk of giving your dog a bone outweighs the benefit it gets from the bone. So‚ there are certainly upsides to steak bones. But dogs still shouldn’t eat them simply because there are so many risks associated with eating them. The 6 Safer Alternatives There are plenty of safer alternatives for your dog besides steak bones. Some of them are still controversial‚ so we recommend checking with your veterinarian before making any changes. Here are a few options you can discuss with them. 1. Antlers While antlers can still pose a choking and tooth breaking hazard‚ they could also benefit your dog since they are more durable and full of potassium‚ zinc‚ manganese‚ and calcium. You can purchase antlers from pet shops or online sites. We don’t recommend feeding your dog self-obtained antlers. 2. Bully Sticks Bully sticks are made from the muscle of a bull penis. These chews might sound disgusting to you‚ but they are highly digestible‚ and most dogs will love the taste! They don’t splinter so you don’t have to worry about the smaller bits causing injury. 3. No-Rawhide Chews Rawhides are getting a pretty bad rap nowadays for the way that they are created and the fact that they are not easily digested by dogs.  Rawhide can and does cause intestinal blockages in dogs‚ so is best avoided. No-rawhide chews are made from natural ingredients and are arguably safer for your dog because they are digestible. 4. Hooves Hooves are becoming a popular alternative to animal bones‚ but they come with their share of risks. For heavy chewers‚ they can splinter the hoof‚ creating a choking and laceration hazard. So we only recommend this particular treat for light to moderate chewers. 5. Himalayan Chews Himalayan chews are also referred to as yak cheese. These choices are made from yak milk in Nepal that is hardened‚ completely organic‚ and nutritious for your pup. These types of chews might be a little tricky to find‚ but you can usually order them from online shops. 6. Bone Broth Bone broth is a highly nutritious additive with which you can spruce up your dog’s diet. If you don’t want them to have steak bones but want them to reap some of the nutritional benefits‚ this is a great way to draw out the nutrients from existing bones and serve it up in liquid form. Bone broth carries a variety of nutritional properties and is a really delicious topper for dry kibble‚ moistening the pieces and creating a robust flavor. Image Credit: ZAHRA22‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Now you understand that although steak bones have their benefits for your canine companion‚ the risks far outweigh those benefits‚ especially when so many healthy‚ safer alternatives exist. Make sure that you call your vet immediately if you find your dog has managed to sneak a cooked steak bone.  Cooked bones can cause a range of issues ranging from mouth lacerations to intestinal blockages.  Your vet will advise you on what is best to do next.  If you do choose to give your dog a raw bone (although not advised)‚ make sure it is longer than your dog’s muzzle to prevent it being swallowed whole‚ and remove the bone as soon as your dog manages to crack it.  Make sure to disinfect the areas that your dog has been with the raw bone to keep everyone in the household healthy. Sources AKC MSD Vet Manual SVA VCA Hospitals AKC Featured Image Credit: Norbertas‚ Shutterstock The post Can Dogs Eat Steak Bones? Vet-Reviewed Facts &; FAQ appeared first on Pet Keen.

Any hamster owner knows how delicate their beloved little pet can be. A sudden noise or abrupt movement can send them into a state of intense fear and stress. While some hamsters may appear to die from stress‚ it is much more likely that these critters were suffering from underlying health problems that contributed to their death. Cardiomyopathy is a heart muscle disease that is common in hamsters and can lead to sudden death. In this article‚ we discuss the impacts and potential dangers of stress on hamsters and what you can do to help keep your adorable pocket pet more relaxed. What Is Stress? The World Health Organization defines stress as “a state of worry or mental tension caused by a difficult situation.” Stress is a human concept. In animals stress may refer to their experience of anxiety or inadequate husbandry. Image Credit: X ZOU‚ Shutterstock How Does Stress Affect Hamsters? Stress can worsen existing health issues‚ such as cardiomyopathy  Numerous sudden hamster deaths have been attributed to this disease of the heart muscle. One study has shown that chronic stress in hamsters with cardiomyopathy accelerated the cardiovascular aging process‚ which suggested that severe stress brought these hamsters nearer to death.1 In dogs it is known that chronic anxiety activates the immune system which in turn affects behavior. It is also known that gut health and brain health are closely linked by something called the gut-brain-axis. Anxiety sometimes leads to symptoms of gastrointestinal upset. These links are well known in humans and it is possible that they also exist for hamsters although studies are limited. What Causes Stress in Hamsters? According to the Merck Veterinary Manual‚ common stressors in hamsters include overcrowding‚ high ambient temperature and humidity‚ parasites‚ and poor diet.2 Stress can also be caused by changes in the environment‚ inappropriate or too frequent handling‚ loud noises‚ sudden fluctuations in temperature‚ and even the presence of other animals. These stressors can trigger a hormonal and neurological response that affects your hamster’s overall health. Image Credit: PublicDomainPictures‚ Pixabay Tips for Keeping Your Hamster Stress-Free Maintaining a stress-free environment for your hamster is easier said than done. However‚ since stress can lead to many serious health issues for your little friend or even death‚ you must do your best to create a safe and peaceful environment for them: Avoid frequent changes in their cage setup or location. If you must make changes‚ do so gradually‚ giving your hamster time to adjust. This includes introducing new toys or rearranging their living space. Ensure that your hamster has enough space and hiding spots. Ensure they have a healthy‚ balanced diet. Ensure they are housed at a comfortable temperature and not exposed to any weather or drafts. Minimize loud noises and sudden movements. Try to keep your pet’s enclosure in a quiet part of the home‚ and avoid disturbances. Make sure you know your hamster’s specific needs and requirements depending on their breed. Hamsters are generally solitary but some‚ the Roborovski Dwarf hamster for example‚ will tolerate being housed with other hamsters. Don’t house males near each other and don’t keep females in season near males unless they are breeding. Always handle your pet gently and avoid unnecessary interactions. When picking them up‚ do it slowly and steadily‚ and always provide a safe and secure environment. For example‚ don’t let your dog come near you while you hold your hamster! Final Thoughts Stress isn’t an illness itself‚ but rather a state that can impact your hamster’s health and quality of life. That said‚ it can be difficult to tell if a hamster is stressed because animals don’t show distress the way that humans do. However‚ certain signs can give you a clue‚ such as if your hamster refuses to eat‚ seems listless‚ grooms excessively‚ or tries to bite you. If you think that your hamster is anxious due to an underlying health issue‚ the best course of action is to visit your veterinarian to have your beloved little friend checked out. Sources Adrenal corticoids in hamsters: role in circadian timing. Characterization of stress-induced sudden death in cardiomyopathic hamsters The Gut-Brain Axis—Using the Brain and the Gut to Decide – WSAVA 2019 Congress – VIN Keeping Hamsters Together | RSPCA. Acute Stress Decreases but Chronic Stress Increases Myocardial Sensitivity to Ischemic Injury in Rodents   Featured Image Credit: Dario Stankovic‚ Shutterstock The post Can Hamsters Die From Stress? Vet-Verified Risks &; How to Help appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click to Skip Ahead Guinea Pig Diet Dangers of Dog Food What To Do If a Guinea Pig Eats Dog Food Things You Should Feed a Guinea Pig Frequently Asked Questions Guinea pigs originated in the Andes Mountains‚ where they can still be found living today. They live in deserts‚ savannas‚ and other habitats‚ but wherever they live‚ they exist on a diet that consists primarily of grass‚ and solely of plant material. Guinea pigs became domesticated when they were reared for food and used in rituals. Today‚ they are kept primarily as pets. They are sociable animals that shouldn’t be kept as solitary pets‚ and they will usually take well to handling and human contact. Guinea pigs also spend a lot of time awake‚ approximately 20 hours a day‚ and most of this time eating. They eat a diet primarily consisting of grass or hay‚ with some vegetables. Because they are herbivores‚ they cannot digest meat properly‚ and it can make them quite ill. As such‚ and because it is usually high in calories and lacks the nutrients that guinea pigs require‚ dog food is not a safe or suitable food for guinea pigs. Guinea Pig Diet As herbivores‚ guinea pigs exist on a diet that consists primarily of grass and hay. They can be allowed to graze on your lawn‚ although you do need to ensure that the grass is safe for them to eat‚ but they should never be fed lawn mower clippings. They need a diet that is rich in fiber‚ which helps keep their digestive system moving‚ and this means around 85% of a cavy’s food should be high-quality hay. Examples include Timothy hay‚ grass hay‚ and orchard grass hay. Avoid feeding alfalfa hay except to very young and pregnant guinea pigs. As well as providing the fiber a guinea pig needs‚ chewing the hay also helps wear down their teeth‚ which grow constantly through their lives and can become dangerously long if allowed to grow unchecked. The remaining 15% of their diet will be made up of leafy greens. Spring greens and rocket are great sources of vitamin C‚ which is an essential vitamin for guinea pigs. A small amount of fruit can be fed occasionally‚ as a treat. Remove the core and seeds from an apple‚ ensure it is washed thoroughly‚ and you can feed a couple of slices every 2–3 weeks‚ for example. Image Credit: Natalia Kuzmina‚ Shutterstock Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dog Food? Dog food is not formulated for guinea pigs which means it contains ingredients that are not appropriate for them. It also lacks many of the nutrients that they need in a healthy diet. As such‚ guinea pigs cannot eat dog food and it may make your cavy ill if it does eat any‚ regardless of whether it is dry or canned food. The Dangers of Dog Food Dog food is formulated for dogs‚ and whether it is canned food or dry kibble‚ dog food is high in protein‚ low in fiber‚ and doesn’t contain the essential vitamins and minerals needed by your little rodent‚ but it does contain meat‚ which can make them very unwell. Guinea Pigs Can’t Digest Meat The single most important reason you shouldn’t feed dog food to guinea pigs is that they are strict herbivores. They cannot digest meat and feeding meat to a cavy can cause serious gastrointestinal problems. Image Credit: New Africa‚ Shutterstock Not Enough Vitamin C Guinea pigs cannot synthesize their own vitamin C‚ which means that they have to get it from their diet. The leafy green element of a piggie’s diet provides most of the vitamin C they require‚ with some coming in pellet form. Dog food does not contain high enough levels of vitamin C. High In Calories Dog food is high in calories when compared to a typical guinea pig diet. High-calorie foods can cause your cavy to put on excess weight and may lead to obesity. Obesity‚ in turn‚ heightens the risk of diseases like diabetes and heart conditions. High-calorie foods should not be a part of your guinea pig’s diet. Image Credit: 279photo Studio‚ Shutterstock Difficult To Eat As well as having inappropriate ingredients‚ dog food is created for dogs‚ which have larger and stronger jaws than guinea pigs. The dry kibble is likely too hard for a Guinea Pig to crunch on‚ which means it poses a risk of choking. Even canned food can be difficult to eat because the pieces of meat and other ingredients are larger than a cavy can handle. What To Do If Your Guinea Pig Eats Dog Food Ideally‚ you should keep dog food well out of the way of your guinea pig‚ but accidents do happen. If your cavy eats a small amount of dog food‚ monitor them closely especially for digestive upset.  If you’re worried‚ take a photo of the ingredients list and contact your vet to ask for advice. They may want you to visit or they may offer advice over the phone. Image Credit: Lipatova Maryna‚ Shutterstock The 6 Things You Should Feed Your Guinea Pig So‚ guinea pigs shouldn’t be given dog food‚ but they do need to be given food that is appropriate for their species. A guinea pig diet is a very simple diet‚ consisting of just a few ingredients. 1. Hay Hay forms the main part of a piggie’s diet. The grinding of the hay controls tooth length‚ while good-quality feeding hay is high in fiber‚ which is critical to guinea pigs. Alfalfa hay is only suitable for young guinea pigs under the age of 6 months‚ but other options include Timothy hay‚ grass hay‚ and orchard grass. Ensure your guinea pig has a constant supply of hay. Image Credit: golfza.357‚ Shutterstock 2. Greens Around 10% to 15% of a cavy’s diet will consist of leafy greens. Leafy greens provide vitamin C as well as other essential vitamins and minerals. Avoid iceberg lettuce because it is primarily water and doesn’t contain many nutrients. Opt instead for greens like spring greens and rocket. You can also feed some flowers like dandelion. 3. Vegetables Other vegetables can be given as a treat‚ which means you should only feed them around once a week. Suitable vegetables include broccoli and cauliflower. Wash the vegetables first and cut them into manageable chunks. Image Credit: Natalia Kuzmina‚ Shutterstock 4. Fruit Similarly‚ fruit can be fed as a treat but only very rarely and in moderation. Fruit is very high in natural sugars‚ which can lead to obesity and weight-related problems. Apples are a common treat but you need to remove the seeds before feeding and wash them thoroughly‚ even if you buy organic. 5. Pellets Guinea pig pellets are hay-based pellets‚ but they are fortified with vitamins and minerals‚ so they help ensure your pet is getting all the vitamins and minerals it requires. Image Credit: KseniyaHaritonova1406‚ Shutterstock 6. Herbs Herbs are another great source of vitamin C and other nutrients‚ and you can add a small amount to our cavy’s bowl. Choose herbs like cilantro‚ basil‚ and dill‚ all of which contain beneficial nutrients and are low in calories and sugar. Frequently Asked Questions Can Guinea Pigs Eat Cat Food? Cats are carnivores‚ which means that their food tends to be even higher in meat content than dog food. It is also high in calories and does not contain enough fiber to be considered a good food for guinea pigs. It can make them quite ill‚ so you should avoid feeding any cat food and try to keep the cat bowl away from your guinea pig. Can Guinea Pigs Eat Rabbit Food? Rabbit food does not contain meat and is generally higher in fiber than both dog food and cat food‚ but it is formulated for rabbits. It doesn’t have a high enough concentration of vitamin C or other essential vitamins and minerals‚ so it should not be fed to guinea pigs. Conclusion Guinea pigs are sociable‚ chatty little animals that keep their owners entertained. Among their care requirements is a need for a high-fiber diet that contains plenty of vitamin C. This diet is made up primarily of hay with some leafy greens and the occasional vegetable and fruit treat. But‚ because guinea pigs are herbivores‚ their food should not include any meat. Therefore‚ it is not safe to feed dog food to guinea pigs. It can cause serious gastrointestinal problems initially and may lead to malnourishment and obesity in the long term. Similarly‚ cat food is not an appropriate food either. Sources https://dailypetscare.com/can-guinea-pigs-eat-dog-food https://ownyourpet.com/can-guinea-pigs-eat-dog-food/ https://www.petmd.com/exotic/where-are-guinea-pigs-from https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rodents/guineapigs/diet https://www.burgesspetcare.com/pet-care/guinea-pigs/feeding-guinea-pig/   Featured Image Credit: Anna Hoychuk‚ Shutterstock The post Can Guinea Pigs Eat Dog Food? Vet Approved Facts &; Safety Tips appeared first on Pet Keen.

Our faithful companions often want to sample some of what we’re eating‚ even if it’s not good for them. But when you have treats like Oreos‚ it’s best not to share them with your dog. Oreos are not healthy or safe for your dog. The toxic chemicals are theobromine and caffeine. However‚ this toxicity is dose-dependent meaning you have to take into account the size of the dog and the amount of cocoa ingested. If your dog snuck one normal Oreo‚ you don’t necessarily need to be worried‚ unless they are very tiny. Some Oreos such as the chocolate-coated or chocolate stuffing varieties have higher amounts of harmful ingredients‚ so it is always worth a phone call to the vet when your dog has eaten an Oreo. If your dog has eaten anything other than standard Oreos‚ be sure to check the ingredient list. Food manufacturers will sometimes use xylitol as an artificial sweetener but this is very toxic to dogs. Are Oreos Safe for Dogs? No‚ Oreos are not safe for dogs. Oreos have a lot of ingredients that can cause problems for your dog. First‚ Oreos contain chocolate‚ but it’s in low quantities. Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine‚ which is like caffeine—another toxic ingredient—that dogs metabolize more slowly than other species. The darker and more bitter the chocolate‚ the more dangerous it is for dogs. With Oreos‚ one typically isn’t enough for a toxic dose of chocolate‚ but it’s not healthy or safe‚ either. The signs of chocolate toxicity include diarrhea‚ vomiting‚ drinking more than usual‚ panting‚ excessive urination‚ and a racing heart rate. In severe cases‚ it can cause seizures‚ muscle tremors‚ coma‚ heart failure‚ and death. Oreos are also high in sugar and fat‚ neither of which is good for dogs. Eating a lot of fat and sugar can cause obesity‚ which leaves your dog susceptible to problems such as joint disease‚ pancreatitis‚ diabetes‚ and even some cancers. In large amounts‚ the high-fat content can trigger pancreatitis. When the pancreas becomes inflamed‚ it’s extremely painful for your dog and may cause a lack of appetite‚ diarrhea‚ and vomiting. If the attack is severe‚ it can be life-threatening What Should I Do If My Dog Ate Oreos? As mentioned‚ one Oreo isn’t likely to cause issues for a larger dog. Eating several Oreos‚ or even one Oreo for a small breed‚ can cause illness‚ however. Depending on your dog’s age‚ weight‚ and any preexisting health conditions‚ the number of Oreos they ate can cause chocolate toxicity or acute pancreatitis. In general‚ any time your dog eats something that could be dangerous‚ it’s best to contact your vet to get their recommendation and watch for signs of illness. Any signs will require veterinary consultation and potential treatment. Monitor for clinical signs‚ such as: Vomiting and diarrhea Trembling‚ shaking‚ seizures‚ or coma Panting or an increased heart rate Tense stomach or abdominal swelling Unsuccessful attempts to vomit or defecate Image Credit: Alexander Hagseth‚ Shutterstock Conclusion Oreos are not a safe or healthy treat for your dog. Aside from the risk of chocolate toxicity‚ Oreos are also high in fat and sugar that can cause obesity‚ pancreatitis‚ diabetes‚ or in some cases‚ bloat. It’s best to avoid feeding Oreos to your dog‚ and if they sneak one‚ call your vet to determine the next steps. Sources https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/pet-tips/my-dog-ate-oreos-should-i-be-worried/ https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/pancreatitis-in-dogs https://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/chocolate-poisoning-in-dogs   Featured Image Credit: Ontalathief‚ Shutterstock The post My Dog Ate Oreos: Should I Be Worried? Vet Approved Advice appeared first on Pet Keen.