Halloween is a season of chills and thrills, but for dog owners it can be a very spooky time. The thought of your pup getting into Halloween candy can certainly put some fear in you. Eating sugary candy, such as starburst, can have adverse effects on your dog. Continue reading below to learn about the dangerous combination of dogs and candy.  

Dangers of Candy 

Candy is a great treat for kids and adults alike. Unfortunately, when it comes to dogs it’s anything but great. Candy is loaded with sugar and fat, so eating a large amount can result in pancreatis in dogs. Pancreatis is inflammation of the pancreas which is very painful and can potentially lead to fatality. Candy wrappers pose a risk to pets as well. Consuming foil or cellophane wrappers can lead to severe bowel obstruction, which may require surgery to remove. Signs of an obstruction include decreased appetite, constipation, or lethargy.  

Clinical Signs of Candy Poisoning 

If your dog has eaten candy, they can experience severe clinical signs. Symptoms may not be visible for two to four days after ingestion and by this time the poisoning may be fatal. Potential symptoms of poisoning include:  

• Decreased appetite 
• Vomiting  
• Diarrhea 
• Lethargy 
• Abdominal pain 

What To Do If Your Dog Ate Candy 

If your pup has ingested a large amount of candy, you must contact your veterinarian and Pet Poison Helpline at (855) 764-7661 for medical help. Specific treatment at the veterinary clinic will depend on the amount ingested, when it was consumed, and your dog’s health history. Seeking treatment right away is typically less expensive and will increase your pet’s chances of a full recovery. Prevention is key during the Halloween season, so store all the candy away where your dog cannot reach it and properly dispose of wrappers and old candy.