(KNSI) – Too much chocolate and treats can give even the sturdiest human stomach second thoughts. Tri-County Humane Society Executive Director Vicki Davis says it’s worse for your dog.
They tend to have a sweet tooth, too. According to Davis, all chocolate is bad for pets, but certain types hit harder and are even lethal. “The worst form of chocolate is the dark chocolate, or the baking chocolate. Milk chocolate’s not quite as bad, but we discourage all chocolate. And the other thing that’s come up, now that there’s more sugar-free options for candy, the kind that’s made with Xylitol can be very serious for pets.”
The ASPCA Poison Control Hotline is 888-426-4435. Davis says there is a 24-hour emergency veterinary clinic in the area.
Davis adds that besides keeping a watchful eye on the candy stash, there are other simple steps to destress the holiday for your pets. She recommends taping over your doorbell and having visitors gently knock at the door when they stop by in their costumes.
She also notes there is an increased risk your pet could get loose. “This time of year, make sure there’s IDs on the collars. Because if you’re even at home and a pet slips out for the amount of times you open the door, that could be hazardous if they don’t have a ticket on their collar to get them home.”
Davis also says to know your pet. They may be excited to have a costume, or they could want no part of it. She says to never force them into something they aren’t comfortable with.
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