Discovering that your pup has eaten a chocolate cupcake can certainly be a cause for panic. While chocolate is a yummy delight for our taste buds, it can have adverse effects on dogs. Knowing the steps to take if your pup consumes a forbidden treat like a chocolate cupcake is crucial for their well-being. Immediate action is necessary to prevent any serious complications and ensure they continue to happily wag their tail.
Why Does Chocolate Make Dogs Sick?
Chocolate is a delicious treat for many, but unfortunately it can be toxic to dogs. Chocolate contains two active compounds, caffeine and theobromine, that have a negative effect on dogs. These compounds work as stimulants in humans, but dogs cannot metabolize them effectively, so they build up in their system resulting in clinical signs. The high sugar and fat content in chocolate can cause stomach discomfort, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Signs of Chocolate Poisoning
The darker the chocolate is the more theobromine it contains, but the lighter the chocolate, such as white or milk, the higher levels of fat and sugar it contains. If your dog has ingested chocolate and you suspect they’ve been poisoned, you must watch out for the following symptoms below:
- Tremors in the muscles and limbs
- Seizures
- Irregular heartbeats
- Agitation/restlessness
- Increased heart rate
What To Do If Your Dog Ate Chocolate
If your dog has eaten chocolate, you must contact your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for immediate medical aid. Take your pup to the veterinary clinic so your veterinarian can administer proper treatment. Possible treatment measures include administering IV fluids for excretion, inducing vomiting and administering activated charcoal to absorb theobromine, antacids to relieve stomach discomfort, and giving heart medications to regulate the heart rate and blood pressure. Don’t take any chances when it comes to chocolate and dogs. If your pet is suffering from a poisoning incident, do not hesitate to call Pet Poison Helpline straight away.
