I'm in a bit of a panic right now and could really use some advice. I'm dog-sitting for my friend’s adorable Labrador, Max, for the first time, and I think I really messed up. Earlier today, I accidentally left a box of raisin cookies out on the counter, and before I knew it, Max had devoured a bunch of them. I’ve heard that raisins can be really dangerous for dogs, and I’m petrified I might have harmed him. Max seems fine at the moment, just his usual playful self, but I've read that symptoms can appear later. I'm feeling super guilty and don’t know what to do next. Should I rush him to the vet immediately, or is there something I can do at home first to make sure he’ll be okay? Any advice or experiences would really help ease my mind right now. Thanks so much, everyone.
Hi there! It sounds like you're in a bit of a stressful situation, but I’m here to help you through it. Raisins can be quite harmful to dogs, so it’s great that you reached out. Ingesting raisins can lead to kidney failure in dogs, and the reaction can vary greatly between dogs—some can eat a small number and have severe reactions, while others may eat more without immediate effects.
First, try to estimate how many raisins the dog might have eaten. Even a small amount can be dangerous, so it's important to act swiftly. If it was just a nibble, your dog might just have a mild upset stomach, but you shouldn’t take any risks.
Watch for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, or loss of appetite. These can appear within 6 to 12 hours after eating raisins. If your dog shows any of these symptoms, or if he ate more than a couple of raisins, it's a good idea to contact a vet as soon as possible. Sometimes, inducing vomiting or additional treatments might be necessary.
In the meantime, keep a close watch on him and offer plenty of fresh water.
To get a professional opinion and have an expert guide you on what to do next, I strongly recommend booking a video consult with one of our vets on Dial A Vet. They'll be able to provide tailored advice and support for your specific situation. Take care!
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