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Question:

Dog ate incense and Halls Honey Lemon Cough drops

I'm in a bit of a panic right now and could really use some advice. My dog, Max, got into some stuff he really shouldn't have. I was out of the room for just a minute, and when I came back, he'd knocked over a shelf with my incense and a bag of Halls Honey Lemon Cough Drops. I'm really worried because I don't know how much he ate or if it's harmful to him. He seems fine for now, but I know things like essential oils can be toxic to dogs and I'm not sure about the cough drops. Has anyone else experienced something like this? Should I be rushing him to the vet, or is there something I can do at home to help him? Any advice would be appreciated because I'm kind of freaking out here. Thanks in advance!

Answer:

Hello there, I'm glad you reached out. It's always concerning when our furry friends get into something they shouldn't. Let's go over the situation together.



Firstly, with the incense, the main concerns are the essential oils and any toxic substances it might contain. These can potentially cause stomach upset, drooling, and sometimes more severe symptoms like lethargy or tremors if ingested in large amounts. Keep an eye on your dog for any signs of distress, such as vomiting or difficulty breathing.



As for the Halls Honey Lemon Cough Drops, the ingredients to watch for are menthol and any artificial sweeteners like xylitol. Thankfully, the honey lemon variety typically doesn't contain xylitol, but it's good to double-check the packaging. Menthol can be irritating to a dog's digestive tract, leading to symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea.



For now, you can monitor your dog closely and ensure they have access to plenty of fresh water. Offering bland food like cooked chicken and rice can help settle an upset stomach. However, if your dog shows any signs of illness—like vomiting, diarrhea, increased lethargy, or changes in behavior—consider seeking veterinary care.



If you're worried or notice any concerning symptoms, don't hesitate to book a video consult with us at Dial A Vet for more personalized advice. We’re here to help!

Answered by

Louise - Senior Veterinary Nurse, Dial A Vet

June 23, 2025

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The "Ask a Vet" forum on Dial A Vet offers general information and helpful tips on pet health, but it's not a substitute for professional veterinary care. The advice here doesn't create a veterinarian-client-patient relationship, and our vets can't diagnose or treat your pet remotely. For emergencies or specific medical concerns, always contact your local veterinarian immediately. Your pet's health is unique, and decisions should only be made after consulting with a qualified professional. By using this forum, you acknowledge these limitations and agree to seek in-person veterinary advice for all your pet's health needs. View our content guidelines.
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