While I was in the store today, stocking up on Easter treats and toys for my pet’s, (yes my pets), Easter baskets, I got to thinking about how so many Easter items are toxic to our pets. I have two young daughters, and of course, their baskets will be full of treats and toys. Just like for millions of families, the celebration of Easter includes Easter baskets filled with sweet treats galore — chocolate bunnies, marshmallow chicks, sugary jelly beans and snack-size versions of nearly every candy product imaginable. As parents, we often warn our children “Now don’t eat too much or you’ll make yourself sick.” At worst, a child who stuffs him or herself with chocolate may develop nausea and a stomachache. But for our furry friends who get into the Easter goodies, “getting sick” may be the least of it. [clear]
Many of the sweet treats mentioned above can actually be fatal to dogs, cats and other small animals (such as ferrets.) As responsible pet owners, it’s our job to protect our pets from harm. And though pet owners routinely give their companion animals human food, this is almost always a mistake. Yes, many pets prefer to eat what we eat. Yes, household pets (especially dogs) really like sweet, sugary foods. And yes, it feels good to pamper Fido or Fluffy by giving them “just a little taste” of what we’re having for supper. But many of the foods that humans enjoy can not only cause illness for your beloved dog or cat, they can even be fatal. And given how small a cat or dog is compared to a human, sometimes it doesn’t take much.[clear]
Chocolate is one of the most deadly foods for pets (both cats and dogs; dark chocolate is worst, white chocolate has the lowest risk). It’s not only high in fat (pets don’t need lots of fat any more than humans do), it contains two nervous system stimulants, caffeine and theobromine. The fat can make your pet vomit or cause diarrhea — unpleasant, but usually not fatal. But it’s the stimulants that sometimes cause death. [clear]
Theobromine is both a cardiac stimulant and a diuretic. A dog that ingests an overdose of chocolate may be fine at first, but will probably become excited and hyperactive within a few hours. It may pass large quantities of urine and become unusually thirsty. The theobromine will cause your pet’s heart rate to accelerate or beat irregularly, either of which can cause death (especially with exercise.) But it’s not just chocolate that’s the problem. [clear]
All sugary foods can cause dental problems, lead to obesity, and contribute to diabetes in pets, too. So be sure to keep your stash of chocolate securely out of your pet’s reach. Children are notorious for sorting and trading candy, so make sure they don’t leave candy laying around (or candy wrappers, either, which can cause choking) And don’t forget how flexible and persistent a pet can be when it smells something yummy in a trash bin or garbage barrel, either.[clear]
If you do have reason to think that your pet has gotten into the candy, call your vet and describe their symptoms. (Symptoms of chocolate toxicity are nervousness, vomiting, shaking, and overreacting to noises, touch, lights, et cetera.) If your vet is closed, call an emergency vet center. If you don’t have one of those in your area you can call one of the national animal poison control lines such as the Pet Poison Helpline: 1-800-213-6680. (There is usually a fee for this service.)[clear]
So, it is up to you to take some Easter pet care precautions. Make sure that Easter candy and other dangerous foods are kept securely out of the reach of your household pets — so your whole family can enjoy the holiday! If you are planning to travel this Easter Holiday, be sure to put the Easter goodies, baskets and eggs away safely before your departure. [clear]
Going away this Easter? Your Wagging Tails Pet Sitter will arrive to your home and see to it that your pet is out of harm’s way. But there is too much temptation for your pet when no one is around. So before you rush out the door to church or to visit family, secure your Easter basket! [clear]
As it seems that candy and treats are part of each Holiday celebration, please keep in mind that this warning and information applies to them ALL…Halloween, Valentines Day, Christmas etc. waggingtails.com (860) 621-7387 (pets) Wagging Tails Pet Sitting & Mobile Grooming Service in Connecticut. Servicing over 35 towns including Southington, Cheshire, Meriden, Wallingford, North Haven, Bristol, Farmington, West Hartford, Wolcott and so many more!
