With the approach of Halloween and the ensuing Christmas holidays, our pets’ exposure to potential problems may exist, i.e.: exposure to baker’s chocolate, milk chocolate and cocoa can be increased. The indoor young small dogs are particularly at risk to toxicity due to their relative size and voracious eating habits.

Chocolate contains methylxanthine alkaloids (primarily caffeine and theobromine), which are chemicals that can cause gastrointestinal signs of vomiting and diarrhea; neurologic signs of stiffness, excitement and even seizures. Advanced signs can lead to coma, heart failure and even death.

Excessive and inadvertent chocolate toxicity has been listed among the 20 most common poisonings the National Animal Poison Control Center and the Hennepin County Poison Control Center.

One pound of milk chocolate or four ounces of baking chocolate could be lethal to a 16-pound dog.

Treatment varies with the amount of chocolate ingested and the patient’s particular clinical signs, i.e.: activated charcoal may be given if vomiting is controlled. Fluids may be given to correct dehydration. Valium may be indicated to control hyperactivity and seizures. Heart monitoring and treatment of erratic heart activity may also be necessary.

The expected course of chocolate toxicity is 12 to 36 hours depending on exposure and treatment. Prognosis is good if decontamination occurs within two to four hours of ingestion. Prognosis may be guarded with advanced signs of seizures and irregular heart.

Keep your pets safe this time of year and keep the candy out of reach! Should you have any question pertaining to your pet’s well being, please do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian.

 

Steven E. Elwood

doctor of veterinary medicine

Albert Lea Animal Hospital

Albert Lea