While Halloween is a fun time for humans, it can be dangerous for our pets. Pets are more likely to suffer food poisoning during Halloween week than at any other time of the year. So, before your dog gets into your child's candy stash, be sure to know which candy can be dangerous and even deadly for dogs.
Chocolate Probably the most well-known type of candy dangerous for dogs is chocolate. Chocolate is poisonous to pets because it contains the toxic substance theobromine. Different kinds of chocolate have varying levels of this substance. Chocolate used in baking has the highest concentration and is the most toxic – followed by dark, milk, and white chocolate. No matter what type it is, be sure to put all chocolate where your pet can't get to it.
Candy Wrappers If your pet eats candy wrappers, they can cause blockages or tears in your dog's digestive system. They can also cause choking or other respiratory problems if they become stuck in your dog's throat. Be sure to pick up any stray wrappers that may have fallen on the ground, and watch your dog carefully if they are trick-or-treating with you to ensure they don't eat any candy wrappers along the way.
Sugar-Free Candy, Did you know that sugar-free candy often contains xylitol, a sugar substitute that is safe for humans but poisonous to dogs? Even small amounts of xylitol can lower blood sugar and cause seizures, liver failure, and even death in dogs.
What should you do if your dog eats Halloween candy? First, call your veterinarian. You can also contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) at 888-426-4435 for any poison-related pet emergency, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Once you have contacted a professional, they will instruct you on what to do next.
This Halloween, keep your eye on the candy bowl. Make sure your furry friends don't help themselves to anything that could hurt them. Taking simple precautions can help ensure that everyone in your family has a happy and safe holiday season!
At Quikstone Capital Solutions, we are pet people. We love our dogs and cats and want them to stay healthy. Share this critical information to help keep the holidays safe and happy for fur babies and their human parents!
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