Charity says hot cross buns and Simnel cake can also be dangerous due to toxic dried fruit
DOGS TRUST Cardiff is urging pet owners across Wales to take extra care this Easter, warning that popular seasonal treats such as chocolate eggs and hot cross buns could prove fatal to dogs.
With the bank holiday weekend approaching and cupboards filling up with Easter goodies, the UK’s largest dog welfare charity has reminded families that chocolate and dried fruits such as raisins, currants and sultanas are poisonous to dogs.
Chocolate contains theobromine, a substance similar to caffeine which dogs struggle to metabolise. If consumed, it can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, excitability, drooling and, in severe cases, seizures and fatal heart problems.
Dogs Trust also warned that fresh and dried grapes, including those found in hot cross buns and Simnel cake, can cause life-threatening kidney failure.
The charity is advising anyone who suspects their dog has eaten chocolate or foods containing raisins, sultanas or currants to contact their vet immediately.
Dogs Trust Cardiff has issued a number of safety tips for owners, including keeping all chocolate and baked goods out of reach, ensuring bins are dog-proof, and reminding children and visitors not to feed dogs human treats.
Owners planning Easter egg hunts are also being urged to keep dogs away from the search area, keep track of hidden eggs, and make sure no chocolate is left undiscovered in the garden.
The charity also recommends teaching dogs to respond to the command “leave it” and keeping a close eye on pets while out walking, to prevent them picking up discarded food.
Charlie Dobson, Senior Vet at Dogs Trust, said: “Easter is a wonderful time for families, but it can present some hidden dangers for our dogs. Many of the treats we enjoy during the celebrations can be extremely harmful to pets, so a little extra care and awareness can go a long way in keeping them safe.
“We encourage owners to store seasonal foods securely, be mindful when hosting gatherings, and take extra precautions during activities like Easter egg hunts, where tempting treats may be left within easy reach.”
He added: “It’s also important to ensure that children and visitors understand not to share food with dogs, however well-meaning they may be.
“When it comes to our dogs, we need to maintain a chocolate-free zone, but there are plenty of tasty treats they can enjoy and join in the fun too.
“For example, taking them on their own Easter hunt around the house or garden that includes dog-friendly treats is an excellent way of bonding and stimulating our dogs.
“If you want to try something different, they will happily hunt for tasty treats including cucumber, carrot, strawberries and broccoli. If you hide those, they will have a much healthier Easter than we may have!
“By taking a few simple steps and staying vigilant, owners can help prevent avoidable accidents and ensure it’s an enjoyable, safe and worry-free weekend for both people and their four-legged companions.”
More advice on keeping dogs safe and healthy can be found at the Dogs Trust website.
