For many people, overindulging in holiday goodies may result in a few extra pounds--but the consequences for our animal companions are much greater if they accidentally ingest cookies, candy or baked goods containing chocolate. In any form ranging from one-ounce baking squares to brownies, chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both methylxanthines that can cause stimulation of the central nervous system, an increase in heart rate and tremors. Clinical signs--vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, hyperactivity, and increased thirst, urination and heart rate--can be seen with the ingestion of as little as 1/4 ounce of baking chocolate by a 10-pound dog.

The ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center reports an increase in calls involving chocolate toxicosis during Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, Valentine's Day and Easter. Just after the Thanksgiving holiday last year, APCC staffers handled a case involving Sophie, an 18-pound cocker spaniel who'd eaten an 18-ounce box of milk chocolate truffles. The canine ingested a dangerous level of chocolate, had already vomited several times and was drinking large amounts of water. APCC staff worked in conjunction with Sophie's veterinarian to provide emergency treatment, which included activated charcoal, intravenous fluids and medication for her elevated heart rate. Sophie recovered by morning, but spent the day in doggie day care, where she would be under observation to make sure she didn't have further problems.
Although chocolate toxicosis is more common in dogs, who have been known to eat candy and trays of brownies and fudge accidentally left out, it is a potential problem with any species. Take care this holiday season to keep all candy out of your pets' reach--and don't let them in the kitchen unsupervised when you're baking. If you suspect your pet has eaten chocolate, call your veterinarian or the APCC's emergency hotline--1-888-4-ANI-HELP--for round-the-clock telephone assistance. For more information on poison prevention, visit the APCC online.

Courtesy of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) News Alert