Apr 06

Keep your dog safe this easter

This time of year, consultations from worried pet carers about their dogs who may have eaten chocolate or hot cross buns go through the roof.  Chocolate and sultanas (also grapes and raisins) are toxic to dogs and can have fatal consequences when ingested.
 
To avoid emergency visits for these – all we need to do is ensure our dogs can’t access them.

Some reminders:

1. Keep chocolate, hot cross buns in high places

Dogs love to eat chocolate, as they have no idea or care that it is extremely bad for them. So it’s best to keep temptation well out of reach. Stash your choccies way up high, or lock them away altogether. Same applies to hot cross buns.

2. Be mindful on Easter egg hunts

As much as our dogs would love to join in, we need to keep them confined safely during an egg-hunt, from the moment chocolate is hidden to the moment it’s been found. Keep them inside (or outside, depending on where your hunt is). Or if it’s too heartbreaking, be sure to pop them on a lead so you can stop any unexpected nibbles. Pssst, parents: remember where you’ve stashed all the chocolates so nothing gets left behind.

3. Educate their besties ( the little humans)

Keep a close eye on all kids, furry or not. It’s common for little humans to drop their treats or leave them on low tables, allowing their opportunistic furry counterparts to take full advantage. Make clean-ups a regular thing and avoid wrappers being left behind (they’ll eat those too). And if your babies are old enough, try to explain why it’s important: we don’t want our pup getting sick.

4. Don’t be fooled by puppy dog eyes!

Our pups love the taste of chocolate and hot cross buns as much as we do. Unfortunately for their little tummies however, even the tiniest amount can be a problem, and simply isn’t worth the risk.

 

If your dog may have eaten chocolate or grapes or sultanas, don’t wait to see signs call your Vet straight away to learn what you need to do.

Don’t forget, if you need help – our Vets are online and available to advise in minutes, 24/7, every day of the year.

About The Author

Claire is a QLD graduate with 19 years experience as a neighbourhood Veterinarian in Australia and the UK. Animal lover and the founder of VetChat, born from a passion to help pet carers everywhere access trusted advice earlier, for healthier, happier pets. Grateful to be carer to her beautiful Red-dog.