Conkers threat to dogs

DOG owners are being warned that their pets are at risk – from conkers.

Animal welfare and adoption charity Blue Cross says dogs have lost their lives as a result of swallowing or eating conkers.

Swallowing a conker whole can form an obstruction in a dog’s gut or airway.

And chewing a conker – or its shell – can release a potentially fatal toxin called aesculin which is found in all parts of the horse chestnut tree.

While deaths as a result of ingesting conkers are rare, the toxin can cause diarrhoea, vomiting, collapse and restlessness caused by the discomfort.

Dogs poisoned by conkers may become severely dehydrated and go into toxic shock. According to Blue Cross it has been reported that dogs can experience respiratory paralysis and can die.

The charity says: “Blue Cross has treated dogs who have fallen very ill after eating conkers. In one recent case, children had been innocently throwing conkers for a dog to catch, unaware of the dangers.

“Signs of illness usually arise after a couple of days but dogs can show signs of being poisoned within one to six hours of consuming the conkers.”

If you think your dog has eaten conkers you should talk to your vet immediately. They will be given hydration therapy and possible medication and - if necessary - could undergo surgery.

Vets can also wash out your dog’s stomach - a procedure known as gastric lavage.