Dog owners’ nightmare: Death by chocolate

Chocolate ornaments dangling on a Christmas tree are a naughty lure to humans but for any nosy pooch it could be a fatal temptation. Large quantities can bring on epileptic seizures and in the worst cases death.

The chemicals theobromine and caffeine that are found in chocolate can have a dangerous affect on our pets’ digestive system. While humans have the metabolism to cope with the chemicals all animals, especially dogs, do not. You can spot the symptoms of chocolate poisoning in your dog; hyperactivity, agitation, breathlessness, vomiting, diarrhoea and increased urination.

There are higher levels of Theobromine in dark and more posh chocolates and even a small amount can be harmful, especially smaller dogs like Yorkshire terriers.

Katy Horton, Vet at Vet’s on White Hart Lane comments, "Pet owners often forget the hazardous aspects of the festive season. Dangers include chocolate decorations and edible presents wrapped under the tree. Avoid overfeeding your pet at Christmas, especially Christmas day leftovers, it is detrimental to their digestive system. Sharp fish and poultry bones can block your dog’s throat. In the past we’ve treated pets for chocolate poisoning; there are always more cases of this over Christmas and Easter.

"If you know your dog has eaten chocolates don’t wait for the symptoms to develop. Take them to the vet immediately where they can be treated."

A spokesperson from the Veterinary Poisons Information service commented, "In 2006 the VPIS (a service based within Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust) in London received 790 telephone enquiries concerning chocolate (theobromine) poisoning in dogs, and was the most common enquiry received by the VPIS. This year alone we have already received over 844 enquiries, and expect an increase in call load over the next few weeks."

Allan Burns, head of Tesco Pet Insurance says, "Avoid unnecessary expense and stress over Christmas by staying away from the vets; make sure you take special precautions with keeping chocolate away from your pets. Every year around Christmas time, Tesco pet insurance customers claim for treatments for their dogs, overdosed on chocolate. Having your pet insured, helps you to keep the vet costs low."

To apply or for more information, log on to tescofinance.com.