HOPS: DEADLY TO DOGS

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By Miriam Raftery

August 23, 2016 (San Diego’s East County) - Home-brewing of beer is increasingly popular—but unfortunately, hops used to make beer can be deadly to dogs. Death can occur within six hours after consumption, if emergency medical treatment is not obtained.

Veterinarians, poison control centers and craft brew beer publications are reporting an increase in the number of dogs poisoned by raw hops, dried hops plugs or hops pellets. Dogs that ingest hops may show signs of toxicity including vomiting, agitation, panting, and rapid heartbeat.

Hops raises the body temperature in dogs over 106 degrees, which can cause permanent brain injury or even death.  Treatment includes administering antidote medications, inducing vomiting, rinsing the stomach out under anesthesia, and immediately cooling down the dog.

If you brew your own beer, always keep hops supplies and hops plants out of the reach of dogs.  If you believe your dog has ingested hops, seek veterinary care promptly. You can douse your pet with cold water, use ice packs and air conditioning in your vehicle to help cool down your dog and maybe even safe your dog’s life.


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