As a dog owner, you want to give your furry friend treats and foods they will love. When you are enjoying some tasty sushi, it can be tempting to share a piece with your pooch. However, raw salmon sushi carries some serious risks for dogs. In this article, we will explore the dangers and provide safer ways to feed salmon to your dog.
Understanding the Risks of Raw Salmon Sushi
Salmon is often touted as a healthy fish option for humans and pets. It is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However raw salmon may contain a parasite called Neorickettsia helminthoeca. This parasite causes a disease called salmon poisoning disease (SPD) which is often fatal if not treated quickly.
The Neorickettsia helminthoeca parasite lives inside a fluke, which is a type of flatworm. The fluke infects salmon as part of its life cycle. When a dog eats raw salmon infected with this fluke, the Neorickettsia is released and makes the dog ill.
SPD used to be limited to the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. However, global transportation of fish means that salmon you buy in a grocery store could be sourced from various locations. This means dogs across the country may be at risk of contracting SPD from eating raw salmon.
What are the Symptoms of SPD?
Symptoms of SPD usually start 5-7 days after a dog eats raw salmon. However, they can occur anywhere from 2 to 14 days after ingestion. Symptoms include:
- Vomiting
- Bloody diarrhea
- Fever
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Dehydration
SPD can progress rapidly and lead to death within 14 days Quick veterinary treatment is essential
Other Raw Fish Dangers
While salmon poisoning disease is the biggest risk, raw fish can contain other dangerous bacteria and parasites as well For example, raw fish may contain Capillaria parasites that can infect a dog’s lungs or intestines
Gastrointestinal upset is commonly seen in dogs who eat raw fish. Symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea indicate the body attempting to expel the pathogens found in raw seafood.
The Problem with Sushi Ingredients
Sushi contains more than just raw fish. The other ingredients used to make sushi also pose a threat to your dog’s health.
Rice – Sushi rice is prepared with rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. The high carbohydrate, sugar, and salt content can cause gastrointestinal upset.
Seaweed – Nori seaweed is typically used in sushi rolls. While small amounts are ok, too much iodine from seaweed can cause thyroid problems.
Soy sauce – Soy sauce is extremely high in sodium, which can lead to sodium ion poisoning and dehydration.
Wasabi – The powerful sting of wasabi will irritate your dog’s mouth and digestive tract, causing excessive drooling, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Avocado – The persin toxin found in avocados can damage dogs’ hearts, lungs, and other tissues.
Even if raw salmon didn’t pose a threat, these other sushi ingredients make it an unhealthy choice for pups. Steer clear of sharing this human delicacy.
Safer Ways to Feed Salmon
The good news is that you can safely feed your dog salmon if it is prepared properly. Here are some tips for including salmon in your dog’s diet:
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Cook it – Cooking salmon destroys any parasites or bacteria present in raw fish. Aim for an internal temperature of 145°F. Grilling, baking, or poaching salmon are all good options.
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No bones – Fish bones can be sharp and dangerous for dogs. Be sure to completely debone salmon before feeding it.
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No seasonings – Skip the salt, spices, oil, and sauces when preparing salmon for your dog. Plain cooked salmon is healthiest.
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Try supplements – Salmon oil is a popular supplement that provides omega-3s without the raw salmon risks. Follow dosing guidelines carefully.
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Check commercial food labels – Some high-quality dog foods contain cooked salmon as an ingredient. This can be a handy alternative to preparing salmon yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
To help you keep your pup safe when it comes to salmon and sushi, here are answers to some common questions:
Can dogs have smoked salmon?
No. Smoking does not kill all the parasites in salmon that cause SPD. Also, smoked fish contains a lot of unhealthy sodium.
Is farmed salmon safer?
Farmed salmon is less likely to contain SPD parasites but cooking is still recommended as a precaution.
What if my dog eats raw salmon sushi?
Contact your vet immediately if your dog eats raw salmon. Symptoms of SPD may develop, so close monitoring is key.
Can dogs eat raw tuna sushi?
No, dogs should not eat raw sushi made with any type of fish. Parasites and bacteria are concerns with any raw seafood.
Can I freeze raw salmon to kill parasites?
Freezing may kill some parasites but it does not reliably kill off SPD parasites. Thorough cooking is the only way to make raw salmon safe.
Can dogs eat cooked salmon skin?
In small amounts, cooked salmon skin is safe for dogs. It provides beneficial omega-3s. Avoid feeding too much though, as the fat content may cause pancreatitis.
The Takeaway on Raw Salmon Sushi
While salmon can provide health benefits when properly cooked, raw salmon sushi is an absolute no-go for dogs. The dangers of parasites and other ingredients make sushi an unsafe choice. Cooked, deboned, unseasoned salmon or a high-quality commercial food are better options. With some care, your dog can reap the benefits of salmon without the risks!
How much is safe to give your dog?
Salmon can be fed to your dog as part of a balanced diet, and can make up the protein portion of a meal (the majority!). You can safely feed your dog salmon every day if they don’t have any allergic reactions and enjoy it (lucky pooch).
Can dogs eat salmon fillet?
Yes! A fresh salmon fillet, de-boned and cooked plain is one of the healthiest ways to feed salmon to your pooch. Just be sure the fillet isn’t marinated in sauce or flavourings or coated in salt. Cook it either in a pan, oven-roasted or steamed.