so i just got home from the dog park and my dog, max, decided he’s an herbalist, chomping on my citronella plant like it’s a gourmet salad. my partner’s like, “chill, it’s fine,” but i’m here like, is max gonna start glowing in the dark or something? safe

Hey there! So, Max decided to snack on your citronella plant, huh? First of all, take a deep breath. Citronella plants are generally considered to be mildly toxic to dogs, but not all situations require a vet trip.

Here’s what you should keep an eye on:

• Mild symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, or a bit of drooling are common signs that Max's tummy isn’t happy. These symptoms aren't immediately alarming but monitor him closely.
• Serious symptoms: If Max shows any signs of lethargy, tremors, or any difficulty breathing, that’s more concerning. These are not common but would require an immediate call to your vet.

There isn’t a specific toxic dose for citronella like there is for chocolate or grapes, so it largely depends on how much Max ate and his size. A nibble might just lead to minor tummy upset.

Here's what you can do at home:

• Rinse his mouth gently with water to remove any remaining plant material.
• Encourage him to drink plenty of water to help flush out any possible toxins.
• Keep a close eye on him for the next day or so. If he’s just having mild symptoms, they should pass relatively quickly.

If any serious symptoms crop up or if Max seems to be getting worse rather than better, it’s best to seek professional help.

If you're unsure or your pet’s symptoms worsen, it's best to book a call with a vet on Dial A Vet for professional advice.