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Pet Care 101- Why is chocolate unhealthy for my dog?
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Cardiff consumed no chocolate while posing for this photo
During October’s National Pet Wellness Month I am passionate about educating pet owners on the value of preventative medicine in keeping their pets healthy. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other festive holidays are times when veterinarians receive more calls pertaining to pets, most often dogs, inappropriately consuming seasonal foods. Halloween celebrations focus on the massive distribution of various candies, including chocolate, so dogs often take advantage of circumstances where Halloween candy is more readily accessible.
Most pet owners know that chocolate is toxic to dogs, yet why is this the case? Dogs are very sensitive to stimulating chemicals, such as theobromine, which is found in chocolate. Theobromine is a member of the methylxanthine class of chemical compounds. Methylxanthines also include caffeine, the primary methylxanthine found in coffee and soda. Dogs metabolize theobromine at a slower rate than humans, therefore they are more susceptible to toxicity resulting from dietary indiscretion involving chocolate.
Gastrointestinal, urogenital, cardiovascular, and neurologic systems can be adversely affected. Gastrointestinal signs include vomiting, diarrhea, and increased water consumption. Urogenital signs include increased urination or urinary incontinence. Cardiovascular signs include increased heart rate and arrhythmia. Neurologic signs include restlessness, muscle tremors, seizure activity, and, in severe cases, death.
The highest concentrations of theobromine are found in baking and dark chocolate. Semisweet and milk chocolate contain lesser, yet still concerning theobromine concentrations. The lowest concentrations of theobromine are present in chocolate flavored commercial products and baked goods.
Additionally, chocolate contains fat, sugar, and other ingredients that can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and pancreatitis.
If you believe your pet has consumed a toxic substance, immediately seek advice from your local veterinarian or veterinary emergency hospital. You may need to start a consultation with board certified veterinary toxicologist at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) by calling 888-426-4435. The ASPCA Top 10 Pet Poisons of 2008 gives helpful information on additional substances that are toxic to your pet.
This holiday season, do your best to prevent your dog from ingesting candy. Teach your children about the potential toxic effects chocolate and other Halloween treats can have for your dog. Once your child is done with their trick-or-treating, keep their goodies in a location inaccessible to your pet. By taking preventative measures to prevent consumption of Halloween candy, both you and your pets can have a safe and fun holiday.
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