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Every year at our hospital we receive a number of calls from owners who are concerned with chocolate poisoning. It is important to be aware that it is the ingredients in chocolate that make it toxic. Chocolate is made up of caffeine and theobromine, both of which are Central Nervous System stimulators, as well as cardiovascular stimulators and they can mildly increase blood pressure. The type of chocolate that is eaten will determine whether or not your pet will become ill. The most dangerous would be the dark chocolate (unsweetened bakers), then milk chocolate (semi sweet) and finally white chocolate which actually contains such small amounts of Theobromine that toxicity is actually unlikely. The symptoms of poisoning would normally appear within 12 hours after ingestion they may include: • Excitement / nervousness / trembling • Vomiting / diarrhea • Excessive thirst /excessive urination • Muscle spasms • Seizures • Coma (rare • Death (rare) If you are concerned that your pet may have ingested chocolate call your vet or poison control immediately. Be sure to have the wrapper on hand as well as your dog’s weight, plus the type of chocolate they ate. BEST PREVENTION: DON’T LEAVE CHOCLATE OR CANDIES LYING AROUND. Have a Safe & Happy Halloween From the staff of Animal 911