Easter threat to pets makes pet insurance crucial

Posted : 11-04-2006

While the rest of the family may be tucking into chocolate eggs this Easter, pet owners are urged to be strong and not cave in to their whining as doing so can have dire personal and financial consequences.

According to pet insurer More Than, sharing chocolate with a dog is far more dangerous than most owners give it credit for.

Chocolate contains a stimulant called theobromine which can affect a dog's heart, circulation and nervous systems and can lead to lung and heart failure. The substance is perfectly harmless to humans, but is capable of killing a small dog in just a few hours.

Cats can also suffer from the effects of theobromine, although to a much lesser degree than dogs. Nevertheless it is recommended that all chocolate be kept well out of reach of all pets this Easter, just to be on the safe side.

But to be double safe, owners should consider taking out pet insurance before the Easter period. With young children burning holes in the carpet in their chocolate fuelled sugar trips, it is impossible to guarantee the dog won't swallow something he shouldn't over the next few days.

And with online providers offering cheap pet insurance quotes, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Graham Hollebon, head of products for More Than, commented: "Pets are often considered part of the family, so it can be tempting to include them with treats at special times like Christmas and Easter.

"But it's important to remember that although dogs and cats may enjoy the taste of human food, it can cause serious health problems such as obesity, allergic reactions and, as in the case of chocolate, even poisoning."


© Adfero Ltd

The views expressed within the article are entirely those of Adfero Ltd and are not those of BDML Connect Ltd