Dog docs’ fears over deadly ‘posh chocolates’
Vets in the UK are braced for an Easter epidemic of dogs overdosing on chocolate after a second pet had to be rushed into intensive care following a Creme Eggs binge.
Just two days ago Zoogle News reported on the story of Polly, a one-year-old Patterdale terrier, who needed her stomach pumped after scoffing 20 cupcakes.
But in an, erm, copycat incident, labrador owner Brenda Dawes of Derby returned home to discover that five-year-old Buster had discovered and devoured a hidden stash of Easter eggs intended for her grandchildren.
“When I arrived home one afternoon, Buster came down the stairs, wagging his tail and licking his lips. I knew immediately he’d been up to something.” Mrs. Dawes said.
“He’s a terror and chews everything he gets his paws on – mobile phones, video tapes, the remote control.”
But Buster had to be raced to a PDSA PetAid hospital after he woke up howling in pain in the middle of the night.
“He couldn’t stand up, his back legs just kept buckling underneath him,” said Mrs. Dawes. “His stomach was swollen and he was obviously in a lot of pain.”
Fortunately Buster made a full recovery after being treated with fluids and monitored in intensive care.
Senior veterinary surgeon Vicky Sims said the dog had probably survived because of the Creme Eggs’ fondant centre.
“Buster was quite lucky. Creme Eggs have a fairly low theobromine content because they’re half fondant,” said Sims.
“Higher quality ‘posh’ chocolates are the most dangerous as they have high concentrated doses of theobromine – which poisons pets. Many people are simply not aware that even small amounts of human chocolate can kill a little dog. If you want to indulge your pet you should opt for a healthy pet treat instead.”
Mrs. Dawes said the episode hadn’t dampened Buster’s adventurous appetite.
“He’s already tried to eat a bag of crisps and a toilet roll since he’s been home – I’ll have to keep a close eye on him from now on to keep him out of trouble.”