Autumn is well under way and as usual we wanted to remind you of those Autumn TOXINS!

MUSHROOMS AND TOADSTOOLS: There are over 4000 different UK species of Fungi! Whilst many are non-toxic some can have serious consequences. Signs of toxicity can range from vomiting, diarrhoea, neurological signs, liver and kidney failure. If your dog has eaten a fungi it is important to let us know and try to acquire photos or a sample of the particular fungi. This allows us to identify the exact species and thus if we should be worried about it’s ingestion or not. As you can imagine, we need specialist help to make this identification; the Veterinary Poisons Information Service (VPIS) work closely with the Fungus Conservation Trust to provide, at a fee, this brilliant service to us.

CONKERS: many dogs remain well after conker ingestion. If signs do develop they are often gastrointestinal with vomiting being the most common. The more serious risk is obstruction of the gastrointestinal tract.  

ACORNS: Acorns, in some cases have been reported to cause swelling and itching of the eyes and lips. Vomiting and bloody diarrhoea are the most common signs seen in dogs after acorn ingestion and symptomatic and supportive care may be needed. Gastrointestinal obstruction as with conkers is also a risk. Less common side effects can include kidney and liver failure. 

SPRING BULBS: Daffodil, Tulip and Snowdrop bulbs can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested. Make sure your animals are kept clear whilst planting and any residual bulbs are stored appropriately or discarded of safely.

BERRIES AND OTHER FRUIT: There are lots of different ones! Most cause gastrointestinal upset but others can have more serious toxic effects. If your pet has managed to eat some berries then please let us know and try to collect a sample of the leaves and fruit so we can identify the material and hopefully work out the potential side effects and best treatment actions. 

RESIDUAL HALLOWEEN /BONFIRE ITEMS:

–Glow sticks and glow in the dark novelty toys; the material inside these is of low toxicity but is irritant to the mouth and tastes bitter causing your pet to excessively salivate, froth/foam at the mouth and potentially vomit. The substances can also irritate the skin and eyes. The experience can generally be unpleasant and distressing to your pet so please ensure any leftover Halloween novelty toys or dress up items are stored safely or discarded of. 

-If your pet comes across a used firework this is unlikely to cause any significant signs as the chemical components have been used up during the display. The main concern is an obstruction if chewed and ingested.

ANTI-FREEZE:  Anti-freeze, de-icers and screen wash can contain a chemical called Ethylene Glycol. Despite the addition of bittering agents dogs and cats are not deterred from ingesting these products and even a small amount is toxic and requires urgent attention. Sadly, cats are particularly vulnerable to these toxic effects. It is therefore really important to ensure bottles of antifreeze and screen wash are kept tightly sealed and out of reach from cats and dogs during this colder weather.

Overall Advice with ANY TOXINS:

If your dog eats ANYTHING that isn’t their own food or a known NON-toxic food stuff then we advise phoning us and seeking our advice. If phoned quickly then with most toxins we can induce vomiting and hopefully significantly reduce the risk to your pet. There are certain instances of course where this will not be needed, safe or appropriate BUT we  encourage you to phone so we can find out for you-01606 880890