While it may seem like an extra special treat, the reality is, chocolate is not only unsafe for dogs, it can also be deadly. While most pet owners are aware that both sugar and chocolate should not be fed to our four-legged children, with Halloween just around the corner, I feel its worth a mention.

Chocolate contains theobromine and is quite dangerous. Doses of only 8oz of milk chocolate to less than 1oz of baking chocolate, ingested by a 15-20 pound dog, will produce vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, seizures, heart arrhythmia and in severe cases - death.

If you already knew that chocolate can cause death in the healthiest of dogs, then you may also already know that the sugar substitute Xylitol, found in many sugar-free foods can have the same dismal outcome.

So how do you keep your dog chocolate-free on Halloween and everyday?

1. The first and probably most important thing is to make sure that every member of your family (and/or any other person that might be in the company of your pet) is aware of the dangers of feeding chocolate and/or Xylitol containing foods to dogs.

2. Remind your children that even though we might love chocolate and all those yummy sweets they collected while Trick-or-Treating, our pets must not have any. Not one piece - no matter how sad and left out little Fido looks while he's watching us nibble away at it.

3. On Halloween evening, opt for a tightly covered bowl rather than an open one with candy spilling out over the edges. Also, even if the bowl is covered, keep it out of your pet's reach in between trips to the front door.

4. Consider purchasing (or even preparing) special dog treats so your dog can feel like he's part of the fun. You can choose pseudo-chocolate treats made with carob or organic homemade peanut butter biscuits. Anything you think your favorite furry friend will enjoy just as long as its safe and in moderation.

5. Make sure open candy wrappers are properly disposed of. They still smell good and to a dog will probably taste good too. This can be a choking hazard.

6. Keep in mind that dogs are good at "breaking in" to things they shouldn't get a hold of. They've got a lot of time on their hands and can sometimes figure out how to open closets and cabinets. Chocolate should be treated like poison and dogs should be treated like curious children. Keep it up high or if you like your chocolate cold, try putting it in the refrigerator or freezer.

If you think your pet may have ingested chocolate or if you see any of the following symptoms of chocolate poisoning:

* Excessive drooling
* Excessive urination
* Pupil dilation
* Rapid heartbeat
* Vomiting and diarrhea
* Hyperactivity
* Muscle tremors and seizures
* Coma

Call your veterinarian immediately.

Remember: This is a serious and life threatening situation!

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