just got home from the dog park, and walter, my perpetually hungry lab, managed to snag a pecan off the table. my partner insists it’s no biggie, but i’m channeling my inner worrywart. are pecans a canine delicacy or a vet visit waiting to happen?

Hey there! No need to panic just yet, but it's always good to be cautious. Pecans aren't toxic like chocolate or grapes, but they can sometimes cause tummy upset or even lead to more serious issues if consumed in large amounts. Let's keep an eye on Walter for a bit.

Here's what you should watch out for:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or unusual behavior
• Stomach pain - you might notice him pacing or whining

If Walter just had one pecan, he's likely going to be okay, but I'd recommend monitoring his behavior. Encourage him to drink water to help things pass through smoothly. If he starts showing any of those symptoms, especially if he's vomiting or severely lethargic, that's a cue to give your vet a call sooner rather than later.

As a general rule, if dogs eat large quantities of anything unusual, it's worth checking in with your vet. But for now, just keep an eye on him and offer some extra cuddles to reassure both of you.

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.