“Please keep these treats and plants away from your pets this Easter,” Dr Pearson said.
“Chocolate and fruits like grapes, sultana’s and raisins can cause serious health problems for pets.
“Theobromine and caffeine are present in human chocolate, which is why it’s toxic for dogs and cats, while fruit like grapes, sultanas and raisins can cause kidney failure.
“Time is of the essence if your pet eats these toxic foods, so don’t take a ‘wait and see’ approach, as this can cause permanent damage to their health or, at worst, even result in death.
“It’s important to take all ingestions seriously, especially if you’re not sure how much your pet has eaten.
“By the time your pet is showing symptoms it’s potentially already a life-threatening situation, please don’t wait to get treatment.”
Symptoms of chocolate poisoning in pets may include restlessness, excitement, hyperactivity, nervousness, trembling, vomiting, diarrhea, increased thirst and urination, elevated heart rate, muscle tremors, seizures, and potentially death.
Some tips to ensure the safety of your pets this Easter include: