so, i just got home from the dog park and dropped a grape, only for my lab, archie, to swoop in like a vacuum cleaner. my partner insists dogs eat worse in the wild, but is that grape gonna be archie's doom or just a fancy snack? like, help?!

Hey there! You're understandably worried about your sweet Archie after he snagged a grape, but I'm here to help. Grapes can be toxic to dogs, and unfortunately, they’re not just a “fancy snack” for our furry friends. Not all dogs react the same way, but for some, even a single grape can cause serious issues.

Here's what you should keep an eye out for:

• Vomiting within a few hours after eating.
• Lack of appetite, sluggishness, or unusual quietness.
• Diarrhea or abdominal pain.
• In severe cases, signs of kidney failure like urination changes or tremors after 1-3 days.

If Archie shows any of these symptoms, especially vomiting or anything indicating a change in his usual behavior, it's considered an emergency. Calling your vet right away is crucial, as early intervention can make a big difference.

If Archie's acting like his usual bouncy self, you might still want to give your vet a quick call. They can offer specific advice based on Archie’s size and health history, and sometimes they might recommend inducing vomiting if the ingestion was recent.

Unfortunately, there isn’t a safe home remedy for grape ingestion, so it’s best not to try and handle it on your own without talking to a vet.

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.