Dog owners are being warned by an animal expert about the potential dangers of a common item that could prove deadly for their pets. Conkers, which are shiny, round, red-brown seeds from horse chestnut trees, may seem harmless but can lead to toxic shock, respiratory paralysis, and even death if consumed by dogs. Kennel Store experts have issued a caution to dog owners as conkers can be highly dangerous for pets.
Conkers are typically found in parks, gardens, and along pavements in the UK, especially during the autumn season when they fall from trees encased in a spiky fruit. Despite their appeal to dogs, conkers are toxic to them due to the presence of a toxin called aesculin. Ingesting conkers can cause symptoms such as vomiting, upset stomachs, diarrhea, drooling, abdominal pain, increased thirst, refusal of food, unsteady walking, restlessness, muscle tremors, and difficulty moving.
The severity of the symptoms depends on the amount of conkers consumed and the size of the dog. If untreated, conker poisoning can escalate to toxic shock, respiratory paralysis, and potentially fatal consequences. It is crucial to seek prompt treatment from a vet if a dog is suspected of ingesting conkers or showing signs of poisoning. Making a dog sick in such circumstances is not recommended as it can exacerbate the situation.
Symptoms of conker poisoning usually manifest within 1-6 hours after ingestion but can be delayed by a few days. If dog owners suspect their pet has eaten conkers, they should contact their vet immediately, noting the time and quantity consumed. Being vigilant and proactive in such situations can potentially save a dog’s life. Dog owners are advised to be mindful during conker season and take precautions to prevent their pets from coming into contact with these hazardous seeds.