Around Easter there is usually lots more food around, especially the food dogs can’t eat, chocolate! As it has a chemical in it called Theobromine which is toxic for them. The darker the chocolate contains more Theobromine in, but any form of chocolate is potentially toxic to dogs, even in small amounts.

If dogs eat chocolate, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, heart problems, seizures, tremors, hyperactive and a severe case of poisoning can lead to death.

If you believe your dog has eaten any chocolate, you should ring the vets immediately.

Easter hunts are super fun! But please do make sure all the chocolate eggs have been found in the garden. It won’t take long for a dog’s nose to sniff any out in the garden that are left. It is so important to keep chocolate out of reach of dogs, so there is no chance of them getting it.

You could make a dog friendly easter hunt, by scattering or hiding carrots or treats for them to put their nose to good use!

Hot cross buns and simnel cake both contain raisins. Raisins, currants, and sultanas are toxic for dogs and may cause kidney problems so make sure you keep these safely out of reach as well. 

Some spring flowers and bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, and spring crocus can be dangerous for your dog if ingested. Keep an eye out on walks and in the garden to make sure your dog isn’t chewing on anything it shouldn’t be.  

Easter Sunday Roast I’m sure would also taste lovely for your pup! However a Easter Sunday Roast, is not the healthiest food for your dog. Our food can be too fatty and contain higher levels of salt which can bring on conditions such as pancreatitis in dogs.   

If you want to give your dog a tasty treat while you’re eating, then a stuffed kong or some homemade dog biscuits are great and just as rewarding for your dog.  

What to do if you think your dog has eaten something they should not have:  

If you think that your dog has eaten, touched, or inhaled something dangerous then you should speak to the vet straight away. Do not try and make your dog sick, as this can cause other problems.  

You should tell the vet what the dog has been exposed to, how much of it, and how long ago the incident was. It is also important to watch out for clinical signs of poisoning including (but not limited to) drooling, vomiting, lethargy, tremors or diarrhea.  

If possible, take the wrapper or packaging with you to show the vet and if you do know the amount of the substance that has been eaten and how long ago, that will also help the vet give the best care to your dog.