Halloween Candy Can Kill Your Pets

It's time for Halloween and that means one thing: candy, but did you know that chocolate can actually kill your dog?

Why is Chocolate Dangerous to Dogs?

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which can have a negative effect on a dog's central nervous system and cardiovascular system because dogs cannot metabolize these stimulants like humans can.

Some of the Symptoms of Chocolate Toxicity in Dogs Include:

• Bloat
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Excessive Panting
• Restlessness (think of a human who has had too much coffee)
• Excessive Thirst
• Increased Temperature
• Muscle Spasms
• Seizures, Coma, and/or Death (in Extreme Cases)

Note: Most toxicity symptoms will occur within 12 hours.

How Much Theobromine is in Chocolate?

Below is a rough guide to help you figure out how much theobromine is in each type and size of chocolate according to the Merck Veterinary Manual.

• Dry cocoa powder = 800 mg/oz
• Unsweetened chocolate = 450 mg/oz
• Cocoa bean mulch = 255 mg/oz
• semisweet chocolate and sweet dark chocolate i= 150-160 mg/oz
• Milk chocolate = 44-64 mg/oz

*To view a list of theobromine per Hershey's chocolate items, click here.

Is All Chocolate Dangerous to Dogs?

In general, the darker and more bitter the chocolate, the more toxic it is to dogs; however, it is a good rule of thumb to make sure you four-legged friends stay away from all candy and chocolate. According to PetEducation.com, just 20 mg of Theobromine per pound of your dog's body weight can result in severe chocolate toxicity effects.

To put that into perspective, less than one ounce of milk chocolate per pound of your dog's body weight could lead to his death. The risks increase if he ingests darker and more bitter chocolate. So to play it safe, and avoid guessing games and calculations, do not feed your dog any chocolate - milk or dark.

What You Should Do if Your Dog Ingests Chocolate?

If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, try to induce vomiting and seek veterinary treatment immediately. Click here for a list of emergency animals hospitals in Houston.

ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center

(888) 426-4435. There is a $60.00 fee per case.
Follow-up calls can be made for no additional charge by dialing (888) 299-2973.
There is no charge when the call involves a product covered by the Animal Product Safety Service.

Pet Poison Helpline

(888) 213-6680. Note: There is a $35.00 per incident and this line is staffed 24-hours a day.