My dog, Max, grabbed an avocado off the counter and ate some! Should I be freaking out? Is this dangerous? Do I need to call a vet right now? How much avocado will kill a dog? I'm really worried—please advise!

Hey there! I totally understand why you'd be worried, but let's take a deep breath. The good news is that while avocados aren't ideal for dogs, they're not the most dangerous thing either, especially if Max only had a little bit.

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

• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Abdominal discomfort
• Loss of appetite

These symptoms will signal if the avocado is upsetting his tummy. If Max shows these signs, it’s still not usually an emergency but keep monitoring him closely.

In terms of what's an emergency, if Max ate a large amount of avocado or the pit, we would want him to be seen by a vet as soon as possible. The pit can pose a choking hazard or cause an obstruction, which is more concerning.

At home, if he's acting normal, make sure he has access to plenty of water and stick to his usual food. If he has any mild symptoms like an upset stomach, you could try feeding him some plain boiled chicken and rice, which is gentle on the gut, but avoid giving any more avocado.

If Max seems off or if you're noticing persistent or severe symptoms, give your vet a call or visit. Your instincts are important here.

You're doing great by being cautious, and I hope this reassures you a bit. Give Max some extra cuddles from me!

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.