Valentine’s Day is just around the
corner. We all love to give, and receive, chocolates and flowers,
caution must be taken.
While we have all heard about dogs
ingesting chocolate and not suffering any ill effects, the fact remains
that dogs should not eat chocolate. There are no magic numbers with
regard to "safe " amounts of chocolate, as what may not appear to harm
one dog, may be deadly to another. The culprit is Theobromine, a
xanthine compound related to caffeine. Signs of chocolate
ingestion are, obviously, empty wrappers or boxes. Other signs are hyper
excitability, restlessness, vomiting, diarrhea, increased heart rate,
and hyper irritability.
If your dog has ingested chocolate,
vomiting should be induced within the first 1-2 hours. Activated
charcoal will help to absorb the toxins. Fluids will help with
dehydration. Care must also be taken with plants and flowers that may be
received. Not only can the plants and flowers be toxic, but sprays that
have been used on them can be as well. If your pet appears ill, and you
have received flowers and/or plants, be sure to bring a sample of that
plant or flower to your veterinarian even if you have not seen your pet
chewing on, or playing with, said plants.
Balloons, and the strings that they
are attached to, are also a concern. Pets can choke on popped balloons
that they swallow. Ingested string and balloons can cause impactions
which will often require surgical removal. Have a safe and enjoyable
Valentine’s Day with your loved one and your pets and, as always, feel
free to contact me with any questions or concerns.
Dr. Dave Gantenbein
Antelope Valley Animal Hospital
(661) 273-1234
Need assistance?