My puppy, Daisy, has diarrhea but is still playful. I accidentally left the pantry open and she grabbed something off the counter. Should I be freaking out? Do I need to call a vet, or is this not as dangerous as I think? I'm so worried!

Hey there! I understand how worried you must be about Daisy, but try not to panic just yet. Puppies get into mischief all the time! Let's break it down so you know what to do next.

First, if Daisy is still playful, that's a good sign. It means she's not feeling too sick. However, there are a few things you'll want to keep an eye on:

• If she starts vomiting, becomes lethargic, or seems in pain, that's more concerning.
• Look out for blood in her diarrhea or if it becomes very watery—these can be signs that need attention.
• If Daisy ate chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, or anything that could be toxic, call your vet right away. Even small amounts of these can be harmful. Chocolate toxicity, for instance, depends on the type and amount eaten. For a puppy, it doesn't take much!
• If she just got into some bread or something non-toxic, try giving her some bland food like rice and boiled chicken to help her tummy settle.
• Make sure Daisy has plenty of fresh water, so she stays hydrated.
• If she had any non-food items like paper or plastic, monitor her for any signs of blockage like persistent vomiting or not eating at all.

If Daisy's symptoms don't improve in a day or two or if she shows any of the concerning signs mentioned, reach out to your vet. Better safe than sorry!

Remember, puppies bounce back quickly from minor upsets, but your peace of mind is important too. You're doing a great job looking out for her!

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.