Dogs & Chocolate
GOOD TO KNOW: Happy Tummy® charcoal added to your dog’s feed reduces gas (and odours), aids digestion and improves health and vitality.
Importantly, Happy Tummy® can help absorb theobromine, the naturally occurring chemical in chocolate that is harmful to dogs This can help save your dog’s life! https://www.bluecross.org.uk/advice/dog/can-dogs-eat-chocolate
Cornel University College of Veterinary Medicine: ‘’One of the most common toxicities in dogs is caused by chocolate ingestion. Dogs cannot metabolize chocolate in the same way people can, so keeping chocolate or products containing caffeine in a secure location out of your dog’s reach is essential. The amount ingested that can cause toxicity depends on the size of the dog and the type of chocolate, with darker and more bitter chocolates being the most toxic. If your dog accidentally ingests chocolate, contact an emergency veterinarian immediately.
Cause
Two toxic components to dogs found in chocolate are caffeine and theobromine, which predominately cause stimulation of the central nervous system and heart. They also act as diuretics, which can quickly lead to dehydration. Dogs may also be at risk for developing gastrointestinal distress or even pancreatitis because many chocolate products are high in fat and sugar.
The amount of theobromine and caffeine in a chocolate product varies, but generally, the darker the chocolate, the higher the risk to dogs. The potential for toxicity is highest in cocoa powder, followed by unsweetened (baker’s) chocolate, semisweet and sweet dark chocolate, milk chocolate and cocoa bean hulls. For example, one ounce of milk chocolate per pound of a dog’s body weight can be deadly compared to unsweetened baking chocolate, where as little as 0.1 ounces per pound of a dog’s body weight may be lethal. For this reason, even ingesting small amounts, especially in a smaller dog, should be treated as an emergency.’’
A little added to the feed each day will keep your dog happy and healthy throughout its life. Happy Tummy® adsorbs over 4,000 known toxins and is an excellent way of protecting your companion animal from the effects of scavenged toxins. Having a pot of Happy Tummy to hand can help save your pet’s life and reduce vet bills.