17/12/2024
Today is Chocolate Covered Anything Day 😋🍫 It's the perfect day to treat yourself to some sweets and to review why chocolate is dangerous for dogs!
The two main toxic components in chocolate are theobromine and caffeine. These are found in varying amounts in different kinds of chocolate. They cause stimulation of the immune system and act as diuretics, causing more water to exit your dog's body and leading to dehydration. Some chocolate can also cause GI upset and lead to pancreatitis due to high sugar and fat content.
Symptoms of chocolate toxicity include vomiting and diarrhea, tremors, restlessness, increased or irregular heartbeat, and overexcitability. Severe cases can lead to seizures.
If your dog has ingested chocolate, immediately contact the clinic or the Pet Poison Control Hotline if it's outside of business hours. Treatment and urgency depends on the type of chocolate, the quantity ingested, and the size of your dog.