Which autumn hazards can upset a dog's stomach?
Autumn walks are some of the best of the year. They're also when dogs find the most things to pick up and eat. Conkers, acorns, fungi and puddle water can all cause a tummy upset, or something more serious.
Are conkers poisonous to dogs?
Yes. Conkers contain a substance called aesculin that can cause drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea, and a whole conker can block your dog's gut. Keep your dog on the lead near horse chestnut trees in September and October, and teach a reliable "leave it".
Are acorns bad for dogs?
Yes. Acorns contain tannins that can irritate your dog's stomach, and eating a lot of them, or swallowing them whole, can cause a blockage. Swap an acorn for a treat if your dog picks one up.
Can dogs eat wild mushrooms?
No. Some wild mushrooms are poisonous to dogs, and it's very hard to tell them apart from safe ones. If your dog eats one, call your vet straight away and take a photo of the mushroom if you can.
Is puddle and pond water safe for dogs?
Not always. Stagnant puddles can carry bacteria and parasites that upset your dog's stomach. Blue-green algae, which can make ponds and lakes look green or scummy, can make dogs seriously ill. Carry fresh water on walks and keep your dog out of murky or green water.
What if my dog has been eaten dead leaves?
Damp leaf piles can hide rotting food, and mouldy food can cause vomiting, diarrhoea and, in serious cases, tremors. Steer round leaf piles and bins, and wipe paws after wet walks.
What should you do if your dog eats something on a walk?
Call your vet straight away if you know or think they've eaten a conker, acorns, a mushroom or pond water, even if they seem fine. Don't try to make them sick unless your vet tells you to. Note what they ate, how much and when, and take a photo or the item with you if you can.
Wipe paws after every walk
Dogs lick their paws, so mud, mould and puddle water can end up in their mouth. A quick clean when you get in takes care of it.
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Oatmeal No-Rinse Paw Cleaner (dogs and cats, £10.99): no rinsing needed, so it's quick after a muddy walk.
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Fragrance Free Pet Wipes (110 wipes, £10.99): for paws and body, handy to keep by the door or in the car.
How can you stop your dog's tummy getting upset on autumn walks?
Prevention is mostly about what they can reach and what they lick off afterwards:
- Keep them on the lead near oak and horse chestnut trees, and in woods with mushrooms.
- Practise "leave it" and swap anything they pick up for a treat.
- Carry fresh water, so they're less tempted by puddles.
- Walk round leaf piles and bins.
- Wipe their paws after walks, so they don't lick off mud, mould or puddle water.
- Carry treats to swap for anything they shouldn't eat.
- Keep digestive support at home
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Save your vet's number in your phone, just in case
When should you call the vet?
Call your vet if your dog keeps vomiting, has blood in their sick or poo, seems very tired, or has tremors. Call straight away if you know they've eaten a conker, mushroom or pond water.
Related reading: Pumpkin powder for dogs
