A national charity has urged dog owners to remain vigilant while walking their pets this autumn.
Conkers and acorns ripen and fall to the ground during the season - and the Head of Veterinary Services at Blue Cross charity has warned these could be incredibly dangerous for dogs.
Alison Thomas said: "Many dog owners do not realise that these iconic symbols of autumn can make dogs very sick, in some cases even deadly.
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"Encouraging your dog to play with conkers is dangerous and can lead to tragic circumstances."
Blue Cross say acorns and conkers can be poisonous - and also warned conkers can become lodged in your pet's throat, which would require surgery to remove.
The charity has urged owners to keep a close eye on your four-legged friend during walks in areas where acorns and conkers could be found.
Alison Thomas added: "Be vigilant on walks to make sure they aren’t picking them up or playing with them.
"Keep them on a lead around conkers and acorns if you aren’t 100% sure they would come back to you when called.
"Contact your vet if they appear unwell after a walk where there may have been conkers or acorns.”
Blue Cross says signs of illness usually show between one and six hours after ingestion but can be delayed for up to two days
Signs your dog may have been poisoned include:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Restlessness with discomfort and pain
- Loss of appetite
For more information, visit www.bluecross.org.uk/autumn
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