I'm really freaking out and I could use some advice. Last night, I baked a chocolate cake for a friend's birthday, and while I turned my back for just a second, my golden retriever, Max, somehow got to it and devoured the entire thing! I know chocolate is really bad for dogs, and I'm scared because he seems a bit off today. He's usually super energetic, but now he's just lying around and I think his tummy might be upset. He even threw up earlier, which I guess is a good thing, but I'm not completely sure. Should I rush him to the vet or is there something I can do at home to help him recover? I'd be so grateful for any advice or personal experiences you could share. Thank you so much, I'm really worried about my big guy!
Oh dear, it sounds like your dog had quite the feast! Eating a whole cake can definitely be a concern, especially if it contained ingredients like chocolate, raisins, or xylitol, which are all toxic to dogs. If any of these ingredients were in the cake, it would be a good idea to seek veterinary advice promptly.
However, if the cake was free of toxic substances, the main issues we might need to look out for include an upset stomach, pancreatitis, or even a blockage if the cake had any decorations or wrappers.
At home, you can help by monitoring your dog closely for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, excessive drooling, or lethargy. These could indicate an upset stomach, but if severe, might signal a more serious issue like pancreatitis. Also, keep an eye on their appetite and behavior—if anything seems off, it's best to consult a vet.
Make sure your dog has plenty of water available to help with digestion, and offer a bland diet for the next few meals to help settle their stomach.
If you notice signs like difficulty breathing, repeated vomiting, or bloating, those can be more serious indications that need immediate professional attention.
Would you like to book a video consult through Dial A Vet to ensure your dog gets the best care? We'd be happy to help guide you further!
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