quick question—so I dropped a few raw potato skins on the floor during our BBQ prep and Bella had a nibble before I could stop her. Not sure if this is dumb, but can dogs eat raw potato skins, or should I worry?

Hey there! No worries, you're definitely not alone in this kind of situation. Dogs can sometimes get into things when we're not looking. With Bella having a little taste of those raw potato skins, there are a few things to keep in mind. Raw potato skins (and potatoes themselves) contain a compound called solanine, which can be toxic to dogs in large amounts. Fortunately, nibbling on a small amount generally isn't enough to cause serious harm, but it's good to be cautious.

Here's what to keep an eye out for:

• Mild symptoms like stomach upset, including vomiting or diarrhea.
• More serious signs like lethargy, weakness, or confusion, although these are less common with such a small amount.

If Bella shows mild symptoms, you can try these at home:

• Make sure she has access to plenty of fresh water to stay hydrated.
• Encourage her to rest and monitor her closely over the next 24 hours.

If she starts experiencing more severe symptoms, especially if she seems very lethargic or if the symptoms persist for more than a day, it would be a good idea to get in touch with your vet. In the rare event that she consumed a large amount and is showing serious signs, it’s an emergency, and you should head to an emergency vet clinic.

Always trust your instincts; if Bella's acting differently than usual and you’re concerned, giving your vet a call is never a bad idea. And remember, these things happen! It's all part of being a pet parent.

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.