I'm really freaking out right now, and I'm hoping you all might have some advice. My little buddy Max, who's a 3-year-old Labrador, somehow managed to get his paws on a bottle of vitamin D softgels. Not sure how many he ate, but the bottle was half full when I found it on the floor, and it's almost empty now. He seems a bit lethargic, but otherwise he's acting normal, just lying on his bed more than usual. I tried calling my vet, but the clinic just closed for the weekend, and I'm in full-on panic mode. I've heard that too much vitamin D can be really bad for dogs, and I'm worried sick. What should I do until I can get him to a vet? Has anyone dealt with something like this? Any advice would be really appreciated!
Hello there! It sounds like your furry friend may have gotten into the vitamin cabinet. It's important to know that vitamin D is fat-soluble, which means it can build up in your dog's system and might cause toxicity. Common signs of vitamin D toxicity include vomiting, loss of appetite, increased thirst, increased urination, excessive drooling, and even abdominal pain.
If your dog has only ingested a small amount, they might just need some monitoring at home. Ensure they have plenty of fresh water available and keep an eye on their appetite and energy levels over the next 24-48 hours. You can also encourage them to eat a little bit of their regular food, which might help their stomach feel better.
However, if you notice any of the symptoms I mentioned earlier, or if your dog seems particularly lethargic or is vomiting repeatedly, it’s crucial to seek veterinary attention as soon as you can. It's always better to err on the side of caution with potential vitamin D poisoning since it can affect kidney function and lead to other serious health issues.
I highly recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to give more specific advice based on your dog's size, the amount of vitamin D ingested, and any symptoms they're showing. You're doing the right thing by reaching out—keeping our furry companions safe is always a top priority!
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