Dear VetBabble: What Should I Do If My Dog Ate a Hershey Bar and Some Chicken Soup?
One of our readers wrote in concerned that their 48lb dog has eaten a whole Hershey bar as well as some chicken and dumpling Campbell’s soup. While it’s important to monitor your dog for any signs of distress after consumption, let’s delve into this specific situation and provide some general advice for pet owners who may encounter a similar situation.
Understanding Chocolate Toxicity
When it comes to your dog’s health and well-being, certain human foods can be harmful or even fatal. One of the most well-known and dangerous treats is chocolate. The issue with chocolate lies in a compound called theobromine, which is present in all types of chocolate. The darker the chocolate, the more theobromine it contains, and the more dangerous it is to your dog. A helpful resource for pet owners concerned about chocolate toxicity is our article detailing the subject: My dog ate chocolate! How much is toxic?
In the case of the 48lb dog that consumed a 43g Hershey bar (which is relatively low in theobromine compared to dark chocolate), it is unlikely to cause a significant health problem. However, it is still essential to keep an eye on your dog for any signs of distress such as vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, or seizures. If any of these symptoms occur, consult your veterinarian immediately.
When Your Dog Eats Something They Shouldn’t
Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t. In these situations, the key is to remain calm and assess the situation. Determine what your dog ingested and try to figure out how much they consumed. If your dog is exhibiting signs of discomfort or illness, or if they have consumed a known toxic substance, seek immediate veterinary care. For more information and guidance, refer to our article: My dog ate something it shouldn’t have! What should I do?
In the case of the chicken and dumpling Campbell’s soup, while not necessarily toxic, it may still cause some gastrointestinal upset in your dog due to the unfamiliar ingredients, high fat or sodium content. Again, monitor your dog for any changes in behavior or signs of distress.
Preventative Measures and Dangerous Foods
To keep your pet healthy and safe, it is essential to be aware of some of the most toxic or harmful foods for dogs. This knowledge will help prevent accidental ingestion and empower you to act swiftly should your dog consume something dangerous. We have compiled a list of dangerous foods in our articles: 10 Worst Foods For Your Dog and 10 Foods You Should Never Give to Your Dog.
Preventative measures include keeping harmful foods out of your pet’s reach, securing trash cans and cabinets, and never feeding your dog table scraps. Teaching your dog the “leave it” command can also be beneficial in preventing them from eating something potentially harmful.
In conclusion, while a 43g Hershey bar and some chicken and dumpling Campbell’s soup may cause minor gastrointestinal upset in your 48lb dog, it is unlikely to cause severe health problems. It is essential to monitor your dog for any signs of distress and contact your veterinarian if you have any concerns. To prevent future incidents, be aware of the most dangerous foods for dogs, and take measures to keep them out of your pet’s reach.
