Halloween is a great excuse for chocoholics to throw moderation out the window. But for those four-legged family members joining this year’s trick-or-treat outings, it’s important to remember that even a small chocolate morsel can wreak havoc on dogs’ and cats’ digestive systems.
“We know that chocolate is toxic, particularly in dogs,” says or. Nancy Leveque, a Schaumburg veterinarian. “Eating chocolate can cause nervous excitation, heart problems, even death.”
Ditto for cats, says New York vet Dr. Dan Carey. “Chocolate contains theobromine, which can be toxic to canine and feline digestive systems.”
In general, any sugar-laden snack poses a threat to pet welfare.
As a healthy alternative for cats. Carev recommends about one tablespoon of unflavored yogurt. For dogs, goodies from Famous Fido’s Doggie Deli, 1533 W. Devon Ave., which sells whole wheat biscuits shaped like pumpkins, ghosts, vampire bats, skulls and bones, for 50 cents each.
And just because pets can’t share in the human booty doesn’t mean they can’t play dress-up. Check out Parkside Pet Shop, 2222 N. Clark St., which will hold a Halloween Costume Party for animals, complete with prizes, at 1 p.m. Saturday. Call 312-549-2031
The Anti-Cruelty Society in Chicago offers a few more safety tips for homebound pets on Halloween night: When opening the door for trick-or-treaters, make sure your pet doesn’t slip outside, and don’t leave your pets alone outdoor.