Easter is finally here and we, for one, can't wait to gorge on all the delicious chocolate.
While chocolate eggs are delightful treats to us humans, they can be very poisonous to dogs.
Which is why Dogs Trust has asked owners to keep all chocolate safely out of the reach of their furry friends.
Chocolate is poisonous to dogs because of its theobromine content, which dogs are unable to metabolize effectively.
The symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, excitability, drooling, seizures and potential kidney and heart failure.
Pet owners have been advised to store your vet’s out of hours phone number on your phone in case of emergency such as chocolate ingestion.
A study conducted by PJM Noble revealed that vets are twice as likely to see dogs with chocolate poisoning at Easter.
Veterinary and Welfare Manager at Dogs Trust Ireland, Niamh Curran-Kelly said: “Please make sure that children know their chocolate eggs are not for sharing with their furry friends.
"As toxic doses vary greatly, depending on the size of the dog and the type of chocolate ingested, if you suspect your dog has eaten any quantity of chocolate, please contact your vet for advice immediately.
"Prompt veterinary treatment can really improve a dog’s chances of making a full recovery."
