Pet owners are being advised to ensure chocolate remains inaccessible to their animals this Easter weekend.

The Dogs Trust in Cardiff has released guidance ahead of the bank holiday break, cautioning that chocolate and various festive foods can prove poisonous to canines.

Charlie Dobson, the charity’s head veterinarian, stated that while Easter provides families with an enjoyable occasion, it introduces certain concealed hazards for four-legged companions. The foods commonly consumed during these festivities may cause severe harm to pets, meaning additional vigilance can significantly reduce the risk to their wellbeing.

Chocolate includes theobromine, a compound that dogs struggle to break down efficiently.

Signs of theobromine exposure encompass nausea, loose stools, heightened thirst, restlessness, excessive salivation, and in severe instances, convulsions and life-threatening cardiac issues.

Owners have also been alerted to further threats including hot cross buns, Simnel cake, and any items containing dried or fresh grapes.

Such foods may lead to kidney failure in dogs and must be stored securely away from them.

The organisation suggests monitoring dogs carefully during Easter egg searches, confirming waste containers remain closed, and training pets to respond to the ‘leave it’ instruction.

Non-harmful substitutes such as cucumber, carrot, strawberries, and broccoli can serve as the basis for a pet-friendly Easter treasure hunt.