EASTER TREATS – GOOD OR BAD?
Apr 30, 2024 5:36:16 AM
Easter Eggs
Did you know that chocolate is toxic for dogs to eat? Chocolate contains several substances called methylxanthine, caffeine and theobromine. Dogs and cats struggle to metabolise these (break down) if they digest them.
Theobromine is present in all forms of chocolate, but there are different levels in white, milk and dark chocolate bars. The darker the chocolate the more dangerous it is!
100-150mg of theobromine per kg of bodyweight is toxic to dogs.
For example, if you have a Labrador weighing 30kg, as little as 3000mg of theobromine could be fatal. Shockingly there is 3000mg of theobromine in one 500g bar of dark chocolate! Imagine if a smaller dog consumed this amount.
Even though the toxicity levels differ if your pet ingests any form of chocolate, the high levels of fat and sugar can also be factors in causing a reaction, so it’s crucial to visit your vet as soon as possible.
How do I know if my dog is suffering from theobromine poisoning?
If your dog is suffering from chocolate poisoning, symptoms usually appear within 2-12 hours. Symptoms include:
- Hyperactivity or restlessness
- Diarrhoea
- Vomiting
- Urinating more than usual
- Quicker breathing/panting
- Shaking
- High temperature
- Seizures
- Rigid muscles
- Increased heart rate and/or incorrect rhythm
- High blood pressure
- Collapse
In the worse cases this can prove fatal.
If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, seek help from your vet immediately. If you have the packaging from the chocolate eaten, always take this with you.
Hot Cross Buns
While you tuck into a toasted hot cross bun with butter, you could be tempted to share some with your dog.
Unfortunately, most of these delicious Easter treats contain raisins, currants and sultanas. These are toxic to dogs and can lead to acute kidney failure or even death.
While all forms of grapes are bad for dogs, it’s thought the dried versions of the fruits are more likely to cause severe symptoms if eaten by your dog.
It’s not known which substance or chemicals in grapes causes poisoning in dogs, but even a very small number of grapes, raisins, sultanas or currants can be toxic. Extra caution should be taken with foods containing raisins, currants (dried fruit of dark grapes) and sultanas (dried fruit of white grapes).
If you think your dog has eaten any raisins, currants or sultanas, seek help from your vet immediately.
What treats can I offer my dog as an alternative?
The best alternative is treating your dog to an activity toy that can be stuffed or smeared with their favourite Trophy dry or wet recipe.
You can also speak to your local Trophy Nutritional Adviser who would be more than happy to discuss the right alternatives so you can still include your dog in your Easter Celebrations.
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