Did you know the following common household substances could prove to be fatal for your pet? Campus Veterinary Clinic wants YOU to be aware!
Chocolate contains an alkaloid called “theobromine,” which is in the same family as caffeine and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, agitation, racing heart rate, hypertension, tremors, seizures and death. For a 50 pound dog as little as 1 oz. of baking chocolate (or 8 oz milk chocolate) can cause signs of poisoning. Theobromine is incredibly difficult for dogs & cats to metabolize.
Xylitol is a naturally occurring substance that is widely used as a sugar substitute. Products that may contain xylitol include sugar-free gum, candies, breath mints, baked goods, cough syrup & toothpaste (to list a few). Though safe for human consumption, xylitol is extremely toxic to both cats & dogs. Even small amounts of xylitol can cause hypoglycemia (low blood sugar), seizures, liver failure or even death.
While ingesting marijuana is not usually fatal for dogs it can have dramatic effects, including depression, tremors, twitching, wobbliness, vomiting, coma and more. Owners should seek treatment immediately. Dogs may need IV fluids or anti-nausea medications.