Easter Dangers Dog Owners Should Be Aware Of

21st March 2024 by Sarah

Most people look forward to Easter weekend whether they are religious or not, as it is a great reason to enjoy a four-day break from work, seeing family, spoiling your pet with some spring dog grooming, and enjoying some delicious treats.

However, dog owners need to make sure they think carefully about the holiday, as it could pose some dangers to their pet.

Here are some you might not have thought of:

Chocolate eggs

Between 80 and 90 million chocolate eggs are eaten in the UK every year, and it is believed up to £415 million will be spent on them in 2024. Therefore, it is safe to assume you are going to have some in your home, particularly if you have children, as they tuck into an average of 8.8 eggs each!

However, it is essential to keep these away from dogs, as chocolate contains theobromine, which is toxic for lots of animals.

Even a small amount can be harmful so keep these out of reach and look out for signs of vomiting, diarrhoea, seizures, heart problems, hyperactivity and tremors. If any of these occur, call the vet immediately.

Hot cross buns

Almost as popular as Easter eggs are hot cross buns, with the sweet bread having been around for hundreds of years!

Although the rich fruit bread, which is often filled with raisins, currants and sultanas, may make a delicious breakfast or afternoon snack, they can be harmful to dogs.

These dried fruits can even cause kidney failure in some cases, so it is important to keep these, as well as the other traditional pudding, Simnel cake, away from your pet.

Roast dinners

Many families will sit down to a roast dinner on Sunday, but it is important not to give leftovers to your dog.

For a start, some of the foods normally served up in a roast can be too fatty or salty for animals, which could lead to pancreatitis.

Additionally, if they eat small bones, they can get stuck in their throats and be very dangerous for them.

Spring bulbs

We are all hoping for better weather so we can enjoy the Easter weekend outside, but it is important to not let your dogs get too close to spring bulbs, as these can be harmful to them.

While they are beautiful to look at, if dogs chew on daffodils, they can get stomach aches, diarrhoea or start to vomit. They may also have fits or appear lethargic.

Tulips are also a danger to pets, as these can irritate their mouth and gastrointestinal tract. As well as being sick and having diarrhoea, they may also develop heart problems or breathing difficulties.

Crocuses should also be avoided, as well as bluebells, hyacinths, irises, lilies, amaryllis, azaleas, foxgloves, and rhododendrons.

Therefore, if there are lots of these pretty flowers around, it is worth keeping your dog on a lead to avoid the risk of them being eaten.