Dogs Trust issues warning as Easter bank holiday weekend approaches

The Easter holidays have finally arrived, which means Spring is here and the nights are getting lighter and shorter. Many celebrate Easter for its religious traditions, while others commemorate the warmer seasons ahead.

For families, especially those with children, its typical to exchange Easter eggs and go on Easter treasure hunts at this time of year. But the UK’s largest dog welfare charity, Dogs Trust, has issued a warning to pet owners as more sweet Easter treats make their way into our homes.

Dogs Trust has reminded people to keep chocolate out of the reach of their four-legged friends, as it could pose a serious risk to their health. Although delicious to humans, chocolate is toxic to dogs and could actually poison them.

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Josie Cocks, Dogs Trust veterinary surgeon, explained the importance of not allowing our furry friends to eat human chocolate. She said: “Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, so owners should ensure they keep it out of reach of their four-legged friends. While some chocolate is more toxic than others, any amount is potentially harmful to your dog.

“If you suspect your dog has eaten chocolate, we advise owners to contact their vet immediately. Chocolate poisoning can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive thirst, excitability, drooling, seizures and potentially kidney and heart failure.”

Meanwhile, the Dogs Trust charity advise:

Although our canine companions can't celebrate Easter by eating human chocolate, there are plenty of other ways for them to enjoy the holiday weekend. Charlotte Huggins, canine behaviour officer at Dogs Trust, offered some suggestions.

She said: “There are plenty of exciting things we can do with