Uncooked or unbaked yeast dough can cause toxicosis when ingested. The moist, warm environment of the animal’s stomach will act as an oven, accelerating the rising process of the dough. During this time of yeast fermentation ethanol gas will be produced. The combination of expanding bread volume and production of gas will not only cause extreme abdominal discomfort but can be potentially life threatening.

Dogs are the most frequently intoxicated species due to their indiscriminate eating habits. Any age or breed of dog can be affected. Ingestion of any quantity of raw yeast dough should be reported.

Signs and symptoms of toxicity: gastric bloat, abdominal discomfort, vomiting, unproductive retching, weakness, and trouble seeing.

References:
– Osweiler, G, et al. (2011). Blackwell’s five-minute veterinary consult clinical companion. Small Animal Toxicology. [Kindle version]. Retrieved from Amazon.com
– The Merck Veterinary Manual. Bread Dough. Available at: http://www.merckmanuals.com/vet/toxicology/food_hazards/bread_dough.html Accessed December 11, 2014.