I love Easter mostly because I just really love chocolate! There’s so many options in the shops to buy all things chocolate with my favourite going to the Lindt red chocolate egg. But for every time I indulge in something choc-like, I need to thoroughly clean up and make sure there’s no debris around because my Fiadh will clean it up in seconds! And since chocolate is poisonous to dogs, that’s not something I’d be too keen on. 

While rarely fatal, ingestion of chocolate in dogs can result in significant illness. Theobromine is the main toxin in chocolate and is very similar to caffeine. Both chemicals are used medicinally as a diuretic, heart stimulant, etc. Dogs cannot  metabolize the chemical as well as people can which means it can have detrimental effects.

Here are the symptoms to look out for if you suspect your dogs has eaten some chocolate behind your back: pet has chocolate poisoning

• Dehydration or excessive thirst
• Diarrhoea
• Drooling
• High temperature and blood pressure
• Hyperactivity 
• Vomiting
• In severe cases, epileptic-type fits

If you set up an Easter egg hunt for your children in your home or garden, make sure to keep your dog away or on a leash during this time. And make a note of where all the treats are hidden and that none are left behind after the event.

Another food item worth mentioning are hot cross buns and they should go straight to your dog’s forbidden food list. They normally contain raisins and sultanas which are again toxic to our furry friends so best to avoid!

Easter can be fun for everyone if you just take a few precautions and keep an eye on your dog.