Protect Your Pets from Chocolate and Candy Dangers

Halloween is just around the corner! While it's a fun time filled with costumes, decorations, and treats, it can pose serious risks for pets—especially when it comes to chocolate. As candy fills the house, pets may be tempted to sneak a bite when you're not looking. Chocolate, while delicious to us, contains caffeine and theobromine, compounds that belong to the methylxanthine family, which are toxic to dogs and cats. Even small amounts can overstimulate their nervous system and cause symptoms ranging from hyperactivity to seizures, and in severe cases, even death. Other warning signs to watch for include heart arrhythmias, loss of coordination, vomiting, and diarrhea.

What Should You Do if Your Pet Eats Chocolate?

If you suspect your pet has ingested chocolate, call us right away for guidance on whether immediate veterinary attention is needed. It's important to note that other types of candy and candy wrappers can also be hazardous, so be sure to keep track of everything your pet might have eaten.

A Cautionary Tale: Happy the Toy Poodle’s Chocolate Incident

One summer, we treated Happy, a Toy Poodle, who ate semi-sweet chocolate. At home, he started vomiting and by the time he arrived at our hospital, his heart rate was dangerously high. When a pet's heart rate spikes like Happy’s, the risk of life-threatening heart arrhythmias increases, so our team immediately started treatment. Happy received IV fluids, medication to slow his heart rate, and anti-nausea medication. We also gave him a substance to bind any remaining toxins in his system and helped his gastrointestinal tract recover. After a mild sedative and plenty of care from our team, Happy made a full recovery. During his stay, he received lots of love and attention, including extra cuddles from our staff, which he greatly enjoyed.

Tips to Keep Your Pets Safe This Halloween

As Halloween approaches, be sure to store chocolate and other treats out of reach of your pets. If an accident does happen, don’t hesitate to call us for advice. We’re here to help keep every pet safe and “Happy” this Halloween, just like our little friend Happy after his visit!