Chocolate: A Sweet Treat That Can Be Deadly
Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, stimulants that dogs metabolize very slowly, leading to toxic buildup. The danger level depends on the chocolate type, the dog’s size, and the amount consumed. Dark chocolate and baker’s chocolate are the most hazardous due to their high theobromine content, while milk and white chocolate are less so, but still risky. Poisoning symptoms range from vomiting, diarrhea, and restlessness to more severe signs like hyperactivity, abnormal heart rhythms, muscle tremors, seizures, and potentially heart failure. The high fat in chocolate can also trigger pancreatitis, a painful inflammation of the pancreas. Given the severity of potential outcomes, any chocolate ingestion warrants an immediate call to your veterinarian. Treatment often involves induced vomiting, administering activated charcoal to absorb toxins, and supportive care like intravenous fluids and medications to manage symptoms and prevent further complications.