Be cautious of chestnuts during autumn dog walks. They can be toxic to dogs and may also cause intestinal blockages.
When chestnuts ripen, they fall to the ground, making them easily accessible to dogs out walking with their owners. Horse chestnuts, commonly found in parks across the northern hemisphere, contain glycoside, a substance that can be toxic to dogs.. True chestnuts, found mostly in southern Europe, are not toxic to dogs, but if swallowed, they can become lodged in the intestines. This may require surgery to remove the chestnut
– It is important to watch out on walks so that they do not pick up the chestnuts. Puppies and young dogs in particular tend to be interested in chestnuts and therefore risk ingesting them. Also, be careful with chestnut decorations in the home, says Sandra Douglas, chief veterinarian at AniCura in a press release.
Symptoms of poisoning can include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, cramping, salivation and abdominal pain. If the dog has a blockage in the intestine, it may vomit, deteriorate in general condition and stop eating and drinking. If you suspect that your dog has been poisoned or has had an intestinal blockage, you should contact a vet immediately.
– Prompt action can reduce the risk of serious consequences, says Douglas.