MACADAMIA NUTS WARNING

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They may be popular party fare, but they're no fun for domestic canines. If ingested, macadamia nuts can cause muscular weakness, depression, vomiting, in coordination, tremors, abdominal pain and muscle stiffness, reports Dr. Jill A. Richardson of the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC). "So far these symptoms have only been seen in dogs," says Richardson.

Although veterinarians aren't sure exactly what component in macadamia nuts makes them toxic, they do know that other nuts don't cause similar problems. If you suspect that your dog has eaten macadamia nuts--or any other potentially dangerous substance--call your veterinarian or 1-888-4-ANI-HELP for round-the-clock telephone assistance. For more information on poison prevention, visit: Animal Poison Control Center Est. 1978 University of Illinois.