the potential for more serious effects. Severe gastroenteritis with prolonged bouts of vomiting may occur 18-24 hours after ingestion of the leaves or berries. Treatments are symptomatic and supportive.
It surprises pet owners that chocolate is poisonous
in sufficient doses. Chocolate contains theobromine and
caffeine, which are toxic to pets. Only a moderate amount needs to be ingested to be considered poisonous. With trays of brownies and other chocolate desserts so enticing to dogs, it’s common to see toxicities around the holidays. Fortunately, the animal frequently vomits after eating
a large amount of the dessert, which reduces the amount of poison available to act on the body. Clinical signs can include vomiting, excessive urination, hyperactivity, fast breathing, weakness and seizures. Death is a rare occurrence.
Many people feed chocolate to their pets without occurrence of toxicity. The lack of clinical signs are due to the relatively low level of theobromine in milk chocolate and white chocolate. While the pet may be excited from the sugar rush and get diarrhea from the candy, those chocolates are not considered toxic.
Like child-proofing a home for the infant, it is important to know the dangers in the home for our animals. Be careful. Avoid poisonous plants, safely store away the chocolate desserts and don’t allow the pets to have access to the Christmas tree and holiday presents.
Dr. Kalick owns the Brookside Animal Hospital in Coral Springs.
E-mail him at kalick@theparklander.com
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