Did you know that Autumn walks can be dangerous for dogs? That acorns are toxic and conkers can make your dog really ill? We share the signs of poisoning to help keep your dog safe
Happy childhood memories
Ah, autumn. I have strong memories of my nana and grandad taking us for walks in the autumn. We would jump into piles of multi-coloured leaves and kick them high into the air to rain down around us.
It’s the season of muddy walks, wind and rain, intermixed with glorious sharp, bright, sunny intervals.
But there are a number of seasonal dangers to be aware of.
Did you know acorns are a fruit? And that they can be toxic to dogs?
They contain tannic acid, which can cause stomach upsets and sickness. In large does or if eaten regularly, acorns can cause kidney and liver failure. Green acorns contain the highest amounts of tannic acid and are more poisonous than brown acorns. They can also cause problems by physically blocking the stomach or bowel.
Signs of acorn poisoning may occur quickly or may take a few days to show. They include:
- Being sick – may contain blood
- An upset stomach – may contain blood
- Stomach pain
- Being tired
- Shaking
- Red itchy skin
Luckily, acorns taste very bitter, so most dogs will leave them well alone.
Conkers can also make your dog sick.
They contain a toxin called aesculin. Symptoms usually occur within one to six hours after eating them and can include:
- Being sick – may contain blood
- An upset stomach
- Dribbling
- Stomach pain
- Being thirsty
- Not wanting to eat their food
- Being restless
- Not walking in a straight line
- Shaking or tremors
- Not being able to move
If enough toxin is eaten it can be deadly. But conkers are bitter too, so that puts many dogs off eating them.
If you see your dog taking an interest in acorns or conkers. make sure you use your “leave it” cue and avoid any potential problems.
We can teach your dog to ‘leave it’
What? You haven’t taught your dog “leave it”? It’s one of the (many) things we teach in our Perfect Pet classes if you want help with your dog. What better present could anyone want than a well-trained family dog?
I’ll be back with more autumn dangers soon.
Keep training and stay safe,
Carol
