The expert immediately explains what to do if your dog eats chocolate

If you’re a devoted dog owner, the sight of your furry companion devouring a chocolate bar can be a turn-off. Chocolate, while a delightful treat for humans, poses serious health risks to our canine friends due to the toxic substances it contains.

Theobromine and caffeine, the main culprits, can wreak havoc on a dog’s nervous system, heart and kidneys, potentially leading to life-threatening consequences if left untreated.

Jason Vishnefske of Santa Barbara Chocolate shares four crucial steps you should take immediately if your dog eats chocolate.

1. Identify the type and amount of chocolate consumed

Different types of chocolate contain different levels of theobromine and caffeine. Dark chocolate and baking chocolate are the most dangerous, while milk chocolate and white chocolate are less toxic but still carry risks.

The amount of chocolate that is considered dangerous for a dog depends on the type of chocolate and the dog’s weight. As a rough guide, an amount of chocolate that could be toxic is about one ounce of milk chocolate per pound of body weight. So for a 20-pound dog, ingesting just two to three ounces of milk chocolate could cause problems.

Jason says, “Determine the type and approximate amount your dog has consumed, as this information will guide the vet’s course of action.”

2. Monitor symptoms

Symptoms of chocolate toxicity can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount ingested and the size of the dog. Mild cases may present with only vomiting, diarrhea and restlessness. However, in more severe cases, dogs can experience muscle tremors, seizures, irregular heart rhythms and even heart failure if left untreated.

“If you notice any of these symptoms after your dog has consumed chocolate, it’s critical to contact your veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately for proper treatment and monitoring,” says Jason. save your dog’s life,” says Jason.

3. Contact your veterinarian immediately

Time is of the essence when dealing with chocolate toxicity. Contact your veterinarian or the nearest emergency animal clinic immediately and provide them with the details of the situation.

“Don’t wait for symptoms to appear. Symptoms of chocolate toxicity in dogs can take 6-12 hours or more to manifest,” says Jason. “By the time symptoms appear, the toxins will have already been absorbed, making treatment more difficult. and expensive.

“They may recommend inducing vomiting or bringing the dog in for treatment, which could include activated charcoal, intravenous fluids or medication to control symptoms,” adds Jason.

4. Avoid home remedies

You may have heard of home remedies that work if your dog has eaten chocolate. While the temptation to try home remedies can be strong, it’s essential to resist the urge. Trying to treat chocolate toxicity on your own can be ineffective and potentially harmful.

For example, do not attempt to induce vomiting at home unless you specifically instruct your veterinarian. Improper induction can lead to complications such as aspiration pneumonia. Do not give your dog activated charcoal or other medications at home. Activated charcoal requires an appropriate dosage based on the dog’s weight and the amount of chocolate consumed. Administration without veterinary supervision is not recommended.

“Only follow the advice of a qualified veterinary professional, as they have the expertise and resources to provide the proper care for your beloved pet,” says Jason.

Chocolate toxicity can be a serious and life-threatening condition, but with prompt action and proper veterinary care, your furry friend can make a full recovery.

Jason notes, “Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so keep chocolate and other toxic substances out of reach of your curious canine companion.”