Fish rillettes: A bad idea for dogs
While the smell of fish often attracts our four-legged friends, fish rillettes are not at all suited to their metabolism. This seafood product, so popular during appetizer hour, should be strictly avoided for your dog.
Why should you avoid giving it to your dog?
The problem doesn’t come from the fish itself, but from the preparation:
- Excess fat: Rillettes usually contain a lot of butter, cream, or oil. A diet too rich in fats can cause severe digestive issues, or even pancreatitis in dogs.
- High salt content: Industrial or homemade spreads are often very salty. Excess salt is dangerous for your pet’s kidneys and can lead to sodium poisoning.
- Presence of toxic ingredients: Many rillettes recipes include garlic, onion, shallot, or chives. However, these herbs and aromatics are highly toxic to dogs and can damage their red blood cells.
What should I do if my dog ate fish rillettes?
If they snatched a small dollop dropped on the floor, monitor them. They might have loose stools or a mild stomach ache. On the other hand, if they swallowed a large amount or a whole slice of toast (especially if the recipe contains garlic or onion), don’t hesitate to ask your vet for advice. Also, make sure to leave a bowl of fresh water available, as the salt will make them thirsty.
What are the healthy alternatives?
Fish remains an excellent source of protein and omega-3 for your dog. If you want to treat them, offer small pieces of plain white fish, salmon, or tuna, thoroughly boiled or steamed, with absolutely no bones and no seasoning (no salt, no fat).