What Happens if Your Dog Drinks Alcohol?

Say you’re hosting the perfect Birthday party with all your best friends, including your dogs.  While the alcohol was only for human attendees, your pet accidentally drank it. What would you do if your dog drank a sip or a glass of wine or champagne? 

Can dogs drink alcohol? What about champagne or wine? If you’re wondering if the alcohol is good or bad for dogs. You have come to the right place. The small amount of alcohol is also dangerous to dogs' health. However, you can protect them with multivitamins and safe supplements. Let's look deeper at what happens if your dog drinks alcohol and what immediate action needs to be taken. 

What happens if your dog drinks Alcohol? 

Since dogs have a unique metabolism and lack the enzymes necessary to process alcohol efficiently. Even small drops of alcohol can overwhelm their system and cause dangerous health problems. Alcohol directly affects a dog's central nervous system, slowing down vital functions like breathing and coordination. 

It puts a great deal of strain on the liver and kidneys, which cannot effectively eliminate alcohol.  Small breeds are particularly vulnerable and cause symptoms like vomiting, tremors, and respiratory distress. If a dog is exposed to alcohol, it is imperative that they need to seek immediate veterinary care. 

Immediate Steps to Take if Your Dog Consumes Alcohol 

If you suspect your dog has ingested alcohol. Swift action is crucial. Keep this guide handy and take immediate action if you ever face this emergency. 

• Stay Calm but Act Quickly 

In situations concerning your dog’s health, it is essential to maintain composure to ensure sound decision-making. Staying calm enables a clear, focused response to the circumstances at hand. 

• Contact a Veterinarian Immediately 

Do not delay – contact a veterinarian right away. If your regular vet is unavailable, reach out to an emergency animal hospital. 

The vet will guide you on the best course of action. Never attempt to treat your dog yourself or induce vomiting unless advised to do so by a veterinary professional. 

Preventing Alcohol Exposure 

Prevention is the best medicine. Taking proactive steps can significantly reduce the risk. Here's how to keep your dog safe and healthy. 

1. Keep Alcohol Out of Reach 

The first step in prevention is to keep all alcoholic substances out of reach. This includes: 

• Securely storing bottles and cans in closed cabinets or on high shelves • Cleaning the glass, mugs immediately after use 
• Discarding alcohol-soaked trash so that your dog can't access 
• Keeping the room secure while drinking, especially when you are at home with small breeds who may jump at repeat. 

2. Educate Family and Friends 

It's not just your responsibility to keep your dog safe but also your family members and guests. We should constantly remind them: 

• Never to give alcohol to dog, even as a joke 
• Keep their drinks out of reach  
• Alert immediately if they spill a drink so the cleaning can be done right away

 3.Hidden Alcohol Sources 

Many of us don’t realize that alcohol can be found in other sources of food beyond just-drinks. You should keep an eye for the food like: 

• Rum-soaked desserts like cakes and trifles 
• Unbaked bread dough, which contains yeast that ferments and produces alcohol • Canned fruits or gelatins packaged in liquor 
• Certain medications and cleaning products that contain alcohol 
• Foods cooked adding alcohol substances 

These hidden sources can be as dangerous as straight drinks. You should carefully read all labels and keep any alcohol-containing foods out of reach. By taking the proactive steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of dogs coming into contact with alcohol. 

Consumption of alcohol is threatening which is neglected by the dog owners. Even a small amount can lead to severe symptoms and life-threatening consequences. But by staying conscious and taking proactive steps, you can protect your dogs from the hidden danger. 

Along with prevention, proper care and nutrition are essential for your pet’s overall well-being. Supplements like the Wiffy Pets 11 in 1 Multivitamin Soft Chew Treat Supplement for Dogs and Wiffy Pets Hip and Joint Soft Chew Treat Supplement can support your dog’s health and vitality.