Recent data from Southern Cross Pet Insurance in New Zealand reveals a concerning trend: approximately one-third of dogs in the country might be at risk of illness due to consuming chocolate.
With the festive season approaching, this serves as a crucial reminder to pet owners and holiday visitors about the risks of placing cocoa-based gifts within pets’ reach.
Chocolate is particularly dangerous for pets due to the presence of theobromine, a stimulant toxic to dogs and cats. Even a small amount, 100-150 mg of theobromine per kg of the pet’s weight, can be fatal. Dark chocolate, with its higher theobromine content, is especially hazardous. Pet owners should watch for symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, panting, fast heart rate, and irregular heart rhythm, which indicate chocolate poisoning in pets.
However, chocolate isn’t the only festive food that poses a threat to pets. A survey indicates that 40% of Kiwis are not aware that raisins, currants, and sultanas, commonly found in Christmas cakes and fruit mince pies, are harmful to pets. Additionally, 30% of respondents are unaware of the dangers of walnuts and macadamias to their furry friends. These findings underscore the importance of keeping such foods away from pets.
Another concern is that 66% of pet owners admit to feeding their pets leftovers that may contain harmful ingredients like onion, garlic, chicken or turkey bones, raw dough, or caffeine. This practice can pose significant health risks to pets.
To address these concerns, Southern Cross, in partnership with the New Zealand Veterinary Association (NZVA), has launched the “Paws Off!” symbol earlier this year. This symbol, designed for food and beverage packaging, alerts consumers about foods that are unsafe for pets.
Southern Cross Pet Insurance national sales manager and former vet nurse Kerri Murray highlighted the importance of this initiative, noting that the company had paid out over $300,000 in claims for treatment due to pets consuming harmful foods like chocolate and raisins in the past year.
“So, as our Christmas gift, we would love every food manufacturer, and marketer to use the Paws Off! symbol free of charge to help save pet lives,” Murray said. “Our mission at Southern Cross is to protect pet life, and through Paws Off! we can educate people about food safety easily and effectively. We want to change the way the people look after their pets.”
What are your thoughts on this story? Please feel free to share your comments below.
