Why Chocolate not a good Valentine’s Day gift for your dog
We are aware that dogs make excellent companions for valentines, but you do not want to give your canine friends a box of chocolate on that day. Here’s why.
The Dangers of Chocolate
Chocolate contains Theobromine, a chemical that is toxic to your dig, as well as caffeine. As such, giving your dog a box of your favorite chocolates might cause serious health problems for them such as cardiac arrest, gastrointestinal complications, and even seizures. The whole box isn’t the only quantity that can cause these complications, even a small amount of chocolate can cause diarrhea and vomiting in dogs. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous for your pet seeing it contains high levels of Theobromine.
Chocolate contains Theobromine, a chemical that is toxic to your dig, as well as caffeine. As such, giving your dog a box of your favorite chocolates might cause serious health problems for them such as cardiac arrest, gastrointestinal complications, and even seizures. The whole box isn’t the only quantity that can cause these complications, even a small amount of chocolate can cause diarrhea and vomiting in dogs. Dark chocolate is especially dangerous for your pet seeing it contains high levels of Theobromine.
My Dog Ate Chocolate, what do I do?
If your pet ingests chocolate, you need to factor in a few things before deciding what to do next. The level of sickness your dog will experience depends on their age, weight, overall health, and the type as well as the amount of chocolate consumed. Small dogs are usually in trouble before large dogs considering toxicity levels are based on the size of your pet.
However, if the chocolate ingested was in small quantities, your dog will experience gastrointestinal poisoning while higher amounts increase the dog’s heartbeat. Symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, frequent urination, and excessive thirst just to mention a few start around the hour mark at which point you should be on your way or already at our clinic for further and better assistance.
So what should I get my dog for valentines?
We advise sticking by your dog’s routine on this day before disappearing into the night for that dinner if there is any. However, you can get them a present such as a new outfit or some new toys to ensure that their valentine’s day is enjoyable too. Feed your dog’s clean and well-fed and be sure to hide those boxes of chocolate far from their reach.
Sources: Harmony Animal Hospital, Pooch Hotel
