Halloween Treats

As most of us know, chocolate in certain doses is toxic to our pets and thus the common rule is NO CHOCOLATE. But even some of the best pet owners have pets that can be naughty and will indulge in chocolate. If your pet does indulge in chocolate, it would be important to define what type of chocolate and the quantity prior to calling your veterinarian. This would allow for us to make clinical judgment as to whether or not to induce emesis, give activated charcoal to absorb the toxin or hospitalize.

Other human treats that are around the house during Halloween that are not chocolate based can also cause just as much trouble for your pets health as does chocolate. In particular, excessive candy can cause a significant gastroenteritis and pancreatitis. Both of these can be serious and pancreatitis can be fatal if not appropriately treated with IV fluids, antibiotics and pain medication.

Thus, the take home point is to be aware of the Halloween treat not becoming cat or dog treats as they can cause a myriad of issues. Another resource besides your veterinarian is Poison Control (800) 222 1222.