Halloween kicks off the Holiday season and is a nationally beloved
holiday full of costumes, decorations and best of all treats! Candy, and that
means chocolate, is everywhere in the month of October so it is especially
important to remember the chocolate is toxic to our cats and dogs. The number
of phone calls received regarding dogs ingesting chocolate the week of Halloween
increased by 209% over a normal week, according to the Pet Poison Helpline.
This means we have to be hyper aware and vigilant of where
we leave our candy stashes. Keep chocolate up high and out of your pet’s reach
or safely locked away. Don’t forget to keep the trash can secure as well. Have
a discussion with your children about the serious consequences of a pet getting
into chocolate and to be thoughtful about where they leave their candy.
Designate a safe, pet free place for candy/chocolate storage in your home.
Chocolate ingestion results in vomiting, diarrhea, hyperactivity,
inflammation of the pancreas, abnormal heart rhythm, seizures, and if left
untreated it can possibly lead to death. If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate,
call us immediately for advice at (925) 866-8387. You can also call Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
The severity of the toxicity depends on the type and amount
of chocolate ingested. The size of your pet matters as well. Baker’s chocolate
is the most deadly with white chocolate being the least dangerous. But white
chocolate still contains a lot of fat and sugar which can still be bad for your
pet. Sugary, fatty foods can cause pancreatitis, which can result in hospitalization.
Signs of pancreatitis include decreased appetite, vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy,
abdominal pain, and potentially kidney failure.
Raisins are another food that sometimes shows up in
Halloween treats and candies. Raisins are toxic for dogs as well, and cause
kidney damage and failure. Xylitol is
found in many sugar free products and is in many gums. This is also a highly toxic
chemical for pets. Call the veterinarian
immediately if you believe your pet has ingested either one of these. Candy
wrappers and foils can be swallowed by a hungry pet munching though a candy
stash. These can lead to an intestinal obstruction. Watch for signs of
vomiting, decreased appetite and lack of a bowel movement. It is not just chocolate
that is dangerous so it is best to keep all human treats and sweets out of harm’s
way.
Halloween is a celebratory time, full of fun activities and
delicious treats. Help keep your holiday fun by taking some precautionary steps
and be vigilant about your pet’s safety.
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