Keep chocolates away from pets

VETS are warning pet-owners to keep chocolate away from their animals this Easter because it is dangerous for them and can kill.

French vets say it is the fourth greatest cause of pet poisoning after paracetemol, ibuprofen and rat poison – and about 200g is enough to kill a 10kg dog.

The British Veterinary Association says 54% of British vets ended up treating pets for chocolate poisoning last Easter.

Chocolate is poisonous to dogs because it contains theobromine – naturally found in cocoa beans which dogs and other animals excrete much less effectively than humans.

Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are the most toxic, especially to smaller dogs and puppies. White chocolate is practically non-toxic as it contains little theobromine but as a fatty product is difficult to digest, so not recommended.

The signs of chocolate poisoning in dogs usually show up within 12 hours and can last for three days: excessive thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea and restlessness. These symptoms can develop into hyperactivity, tremors, abnormal heart rate, hyperthermia and rapid breathing.

In severe cases, dogs can have fits and heartbeat irregularities resulting in coma or death.

The problem is particularly serious in France as dark chocolate makes up about half of chocolate bar sales and 30% of all purchases – with each person eating 6.6kg a year.

See our round-up of Easter church services in English across France at Easter services