### Easter Fun with Our Furry Friends
Easter is a time for joy and celebration, and our dogs love to join in on the festive fun! With long walks and lots of visitors, it’s no wonder our canine companions look forward to this holiday too. But, as we enjoy the celebration, it’s important to keep our furry friends safe.
Beware of Chocolate
One of the biggest dangers for dogs at Easter is chocolate. Dogs should never eat chocolate, as it can make them very sick. Research from The Kennel Club shows a 50% increase in cases of chocolate poisoning in dogs during Easter compared to other months.
Last year, almost 20% of all cases of chocolate poisoning claims happened around Easter. This was reported by Kennel Club Pet Insurance, with data from Agria Pet Insurance.
A Frightening Experience
Jenny Tudor from Kent, England, had a scary experience with her dachshunds, Rolo and Cocoa. While on holiday, a chocolate gift was accidentally left where Rolo could reach it. He ate the chocolate, and when the family discovered this, they noticed his heart was racing. They rushed him to the emergency vet, who monitored him for two days, costing more than £1,000 ($1,300).
Jenny said, “I felt really panicked because it was a lot of chocolate for a small dog. I felt so sick thinking about how serious it could be, and so silly for not checking the bag was out of reach.” Thankfully, Rolo made a full recovery. “It was a relief to see him back to his playful self, and he was so happy to see us. Lots of cuddles followed!”
Keep Your Dog Safe
To keep your dog safe, always ensure chocolate is out of their reach. Remind any children not to leave their chocolate eggs where pets can find them, and keep dogs away from chocolate egg hunts. Mistakes happen, so it’s good to be aware!
Watch for Warning Signs
If you think your dog has eaten chocolate, here’s what symptoms to look for, according to Robin Hargreaves, a senior veterinary advisor for Agria:
- Restlessness or hyperactivity
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Rapid heart rate
- Tremors or seizures
If you’re worried, keep the chocolate packaging and call the vet right away. Even if your dog seems okay, symptoms can appear up to 24 hours later.
A Special Treat
Don't want your furry friend to miss out on the holiday treats? You can buy dog-friendly chocolate online. Or, make a delicious, vet-approved hot chocolate for them instead! Although it’s a Christmas recipe, it works perfectly for Easter too.
A Loving Reminder
Let's cherish and protect our pets during the festivities. Give them lots of love and care, and think about adopting a pet if you haven't already. They bring so much joy and companionship into our lives, and with a little care, we can give them the safe, happy homes they deserve.