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   More About Chocolate and Your Health  Protecting Your PetsWhile chocolate may help protect the human heart, lower bad cholesterol, and even provide a quick energy boost, it can be dangerous to your pets. Chocolate contains chemicals that dogs and cats cannot process. Dogs and cats can’t metabolize or excrete theobromine, a mild stimulant found in chocolate. In some pets, theobromine can trigger seizures, cardiac irregularity, and internal bleeding, and can even lead to death. Each pet responds differently to chocolate. How a pet will react depends upon its health and size, as well as the amount and type of chocolate consumed. Dark chocolate, for instance, contains a lot more theobromine than milk chocolate, and thus is much more dangerous. Although theobromine is poisonous to dogs and cats alike, dogs are more likely to consume chocolate if left unsupervised. Seek immediate medical attention for your dog. If you suspect your dog has eaten a large quantity of chocolate (or is feeling sick after eating a small amount of chocolate) you should take it to a vet immediately. And remember, chocolate is dangerous to animals whether it is in the form of a cake, cookies, or ice cream. Continue to Making Chocolate |
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