KEEP chocolate away from your dog this Easter.

That’s the warning to pet owners after it was revealed that 73 per cent of vets in the South West saw at least one case of chocolate poisoning over the Easter holidays last year.

A survey carried out by the British Veterinary Association (BVA) showed that a majority of vets see urgent cases over the festive period because chocolate treats have not been kept out of reach of pets.

While most vets across the UK saw an average of two cases of chocolate poisoning last Easter, around one in eight treated five or more cases, which is more than double the amount reported over the previous two years.

Chocolate poisoning is highest in the south of England.

Chocolate contains theobromine, a naturally occurring chemical found in cocoa beans. While safe for humans, it is harmful to dogs and other animals and can be highly poisonous.

The level of toxicity depends on the amount and type of chocolate ingested and the size of the dog with smaller dogs and puppies most at risk.

Dark chocolate and cocoa powder are most toxic to animals.

John Fishwick, British Veterinary Association President, said: “Easter is a time of great fun for the whole family, but chocolate treats meant for humans can be poisonous for our pets. Dogs in particular have a keen sense of smell and can easily sniff out sweet treats, so make sure any chocolate goodies are stored securely out of reach of inquisitive noses to avoid an emergency trip to the vet."

He added: “If you suspect that your dog has eaten chocolate, don’t delay in contacting your local vet. The quicker the animal gets veterinary advice and treatment, the better. Your vet will want to know how much chocolate your dog has eaten and what type. If possible, keep any labels and have the weight of the dog to hand.”

The effects of chocolate poisoning in dogs usually appear within 12 hours and can last up to three days.

The first signs of chocolate poisoning include excessive thirst, vomiting, diarrhoea and restlessness.

These symptoms can then develop into hyperactivity, tremors, abnormal heart rate, hyperthermia and rapid breathing. In severe cases, dogs can experience fits and heartbeat irregularities and some cases can result in coma or death.

For more information on pets and poisons, download a free Animal Welfare Foundation leaflet at bva-awf.org.uk/pet-care-advice/pets-and-poisons.