Valentine’s Day is coming up, so you may be receiving some chocolate from a loved one. However, if your dog gets into them before you, they can face serious consequences and a possible trip to the animal hospital. The following guide will explain what steps to take to keep your dog safe from these sweet treats.

Why Is Chocolate Bad for Dogs? 

Chocolate is dangerous for dogs because it contains both theobromine and caffeine, which are known to enhance blood flow in the brain. Dogs can’t metabolize them as well as humans can, so it can dangerously increase their heart rate if consumed. Even small doses of chocolate can make a dog sick, and large amounts may be lethal. 

How Do You Know If Your Dog Has Eaten Any? 

Of course, if you see your dog eating chocolate or see the evidence — such as empty wrappers or decorative boxes on the floor — you should seek medical treatment for them right away. However, if you don’t see the act, you should be able to recognize the symptoms.

If your dog has eaten chocolate, they will start having a reaction between six and twelve hours later. They may seem restless and urinate more frequently. They may also vomit and produce diarrhea, and in serious cases, their body might start shaking.

What Should You Do Next? 

Call an animal hospital to see if an emergency vet is available. Depending on the symptoms and the amount of chocolate your dog ate, the veterinarian may tell you to simply watch over your dog and bring them into the clinic immediately if they get worse. If veterinary intervention is not needed, your dog should improve on their own in a few days. 

Your veterinarian will likely provide pet medications designed to induce vomiting or give them a treatment of activated charcoal to remove the chocolate from their system. If you can’t reach a veterinarian, call the Pet Poison Hotline at (855) 213-6680 for more details on what steps to take.

 
If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, contact the experts at Animal Health Center in Enterprise, AL. Available 24/7, the staff there will be glad to provide an examination and proscribe any necessary medicine to care for your pet. For over 50 years, this team has offered preventative and emergency services, from vaccinations and boarding to ultrasounds and surgeries. For more information, call them today at (334) 347-0544 or message them online.