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Parasitic diseases in rabbits: the commonest threats and how to prevent them
Coccidiosis, encephalitozoonosis, ear mange and cheyletiellosis are the parasitic diseases pet rabbits meet most often, and they can go unnoticed for a long time. We explain how they are diagnosed in the laboratory, how they are treated, and which hygiene, quarantine and feeding rules keep infection at bay.
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How to protect your dog’s paws in winter
Frost, ice and road salt leave a dog's pads irritated, cracked and sometimes frostbitten every winter. We explain how to pick a route and a protective wax before the walk, how to rinse and dry the paws properly once you are home, and which signs mean it is time to call the veterinary clinic.
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Horner’s syndrome in dogs and cats: signs, causes, diagnosis and treatment
A drooping eyelid, a smaller pupil and a visible third eyelid on one side add up to Horner's syndrome. It is not painful in itself and does not harm sight, but it often signals another, more serious condition underneath. We explain the causes, the diagnostic steps, the pharmacological tests and the treatment options.
Is chocolate poisonous to dogs?
Can dogs eat chocolate?
Dog owners are becoming increasingly aware of what they feed their pets. Part of that is knowing what can harm a dog’s health. Chocolate is one of the foods that are poisonous to both dogs and cats.
Why is chocolate poisonous to dogs?
Chocolate contains theobromine, and it is this substance that is dangerous to animals. Humans have no trouble with it because we metabolise it much faster than dogs do.
The key factors are the size of the dog, how much chocolate it has eaten and what kind. Large dogs can eat considerably more, and the effects may be milder. In small dogs the lethal dose is much lower. The type of chocolate matters a great deal, because dark and plain chocolate contain the most theobromine, so whenever your dog has got hold of these, you must see a vet!
If your dog has eaten white chocolate, the approach may vary and veterinary help is not always needed. Bear in mind, though, that whenever a dog eats any kind of chocolate, you should at the very least contact a veterinary clinic.
What to do if your dog has eaten chocolate
Always start by contacting a veterinary clinic and telling them what has happened! The vet will certainly ask about:
All of these factors are very important for deciding how to treat the patient. The most common course of action after a dog has eaten chocolate is to induce vomiting, which is why the owner’s reaction time is so important: this can only be done within 4 hours of eating. After that, the harmful substance is absorbed and poisoning may set in.
What are the symptoms of theobromine poisoning?
Every dog may react differently, but the typical symptoms of chocolate poisoning include:
Remember that theobromine poisoning can be fatal, so any unusual behaviour in your dog should set alarm bells ringing.
Summary:
Whatever the amount and type of chocolate eaten, the owner’s first step should be to contact a veterinary clinic and get advice on what to do next. If your dog tends to hunt out and eat things it shouldn’t, pay closer attention to where you keep your sweets.