so i just got back from the dog park, and my golden retriever, biscuit, managed to swipe a few skittles from the snack bag when i wasn't looking. my partner insists it’s fine, but i’m pretty sure my dog doesn’t need to taste the rainbow. thoughts?

Hi there! I totally get your concern—our furry friends have a knack for grabbing what they shouldn’t. Luckily, a few Skittles generally aren’t toxic to dogs. However, they’re not a healthy snack for Biscuit due to the sugar content. Here’s what to know:

Skittles themselves don’t contain substances like chocolate or xylitol (often found in sugar-free candies), which can be toxic. Since Biscuit only had a few, he should be just fine, but it’s good to keep an eye on him.

Watch for:

• Upset tummy signs like vomiting or diarrhea
• Any unusual behavior or hyperactivity due to sugar

If Biscuit shows mild symptoms, he might just need a little extra attention and a chance to rest. Make sure he has access to fresh water to help with hydration.

An emergency would be as follows:

• If he ingests a large amount, if you notice persistent vomiting, diarrhea, or lethargy
• If he experiences tremors or difficulty breathing

If Biscuit seems okay, just monitor him at home. If you ever notice alarming symptoms or they persist, reaching out to a vet is a good idea.

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.