just got back from the dog park and my dog, Pickles, decided to snack on some mulberries that fell off a tree. my partner says it's no biggie, but i've got a PhD in worry-wart. can dogs safely eat these, or should i brace for a berry messy situation?

Hey there, thanks for reaching out! I totally get it—being a worried pet parent is part of the job description. The good news is that mulberries are generally not toxic to dogs, so Pickles should be okay with their little berry venture.

Here’s what to watch for just in case:

• Upset tummy: mild vomiting or diarrhea is possible if Pickles overindulged, but typically, this isn't severe.
• Lethargy: if they eat a lot, Pickles might seem a bit out of sorts or sleepy.

If Pickles experiences more severe symptoms, like:

• persistent vomiting or diarrhea that lasts more than 24 hours
• abnormal weakness or collapsing
• difficulty breathing or changes in behavior

These would indeed signal an emergency and warrant a call to the vet right away.

Otherwise, you can monitor Pickles at home. Make sure they have access to plenty of fresh water, and a little rest can help too. If they seem fine, you don't need to do much else but keep an eye on them.

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.