Vets issue warning over Easter treat perils facing our pets
VETS are warning owners to be extra vigilant in the lead-up to Easter to avoid a trip to the surgery with a sick pet.
Parker and Crowther, which has branches in Birkdale, Churchtown and Formby, expects to be inundated with cases of pets that have eaten something unsuitable.
Easter eggs, sweets and hot cross buns may be tempting treats, but they are all potentially fatal if eaten by pets.
Chocolate contains the chemical theobromine, which is toxic to pets, and Easter is the second busiest time of year after Christmas for cases of chocolate poisoning.
Even small amounts of chocolate can cause heart problems, hyperexcitability and fits.
Raisins in hot cross buns can be deadly to pets, while the traditional Easter Sunday dinner can cause problems with gastro-enteritis or choking on bones.
Lilies are poisonous to cats and daffodil, crocus and tulip bulbs are toxic to dogs.
Parker and Crowther clinical director Phil Lauder said: “We see a significant rise in cases like this around Easter time.
“Whether it’s caused by well-meaning owners treating their pets with chocolate or hot cross buns accidentally left within their reach, we see a lot of dogs suffering from poisoning at this time of year.
“The higher the level of cocoa in the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains, so the darker the chocolate, the greater the risk.
“As little as a 10g minibar of dark chocolate can be fatal to a small dog.
“Symptoms of chocolate poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhoea, increased heart rate, and can lead to seizures and cardiac failure.
“Some sweets and chewing gum contain an artificial sweetener called xylitol, which is also toxic to pets.”
He added: “Keep all hazards locked away in high cupboards where pets cannot see or reach them.”