GotoAID Dogs - Poison

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Poison - Chocolate

Chocolate is very poisonous to your pet. There is a chemical in chocolate called Theobromine. Theobromine is a diuretic as well as a cardiac stimulant. This can cause the pet's heart rate to increase or it may cause the heart to beat irregularly, both of which can be dangerous to the animal. The level of Theobromine present in chocolate varies depending on the type of chocolate. For example, dark chocolate contains higher levels than milk chocolate and so could pose a greater risk to your pet. The ASPCA animal poison control will give you more specific information than your local poison control as they specialize with animal poisoning, however they do have a minimal charge.

Symptoms

Drooling	Muscle Tremors
Vomiting	Thirst
Hyperactivity	Increased Urination
Seizures	Diarrhea
Coma

Steps

Try to identify the toxic substance collect any empty bottles or containers, and check for distinctive odors

Look for traces in or around the mouth to identify the substance

If your dog vomits, note carefully the appearance of the vomit and collect them in a plastic baggy for identification

Try to estimate the amount that the pet has eaten. Some things are only toxic in large doses

If your dog ingested the chocolate less than 2 hours ago induce vomiting with 3% Hydrogen Peroxide, 1-2 teaspoons for every 10lb your dog weighs, and squirt it at the back of your dog's tongue

You will notice a foaming action and the taste should prompt vomiting within 5 min, if needed repeat 2-3 times allowing 5 min between doses

Call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at (888) 426-4435 there is a $60 consultation fee, payable by credit card, for this service and this includes follow-up consultation should you or your vet need further assistance with your pet’s case

Warnings

Induce vomiting with 3% Hydrogen Peroxide

Wear gloves while helping your dog to avoid contact with the acid

A dose of less than 1 oz of milk chocolate per pound of body weight could potentially cause death

If your animal is having seizures, losing consciousness, is unconscious or is having difficulty breathing, telephone ahead and bring your pet immediately to your local veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic

Tips

Note any symptoms that your pet may be having

ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at (888) 426-4435

You can give activated charcoal by mouth to help absorb antifreeze that was recently ingested but call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline first.

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