I accidentally left the pantry open, and Bella licked up some pesto off the floor. Should I be freaking out? Is this dangerous for her? Do I need to call a vet right now? I’m really worried!

Hi there! I totally understand your concern — it's alarming to see our furry friends get into things they shouldn't! Let's talk about Bella and the pesto. The main ingredients in pesto that can be concerning for dogs are garlic and occasionally nuts (especially walnuts). Garlic in particular can be toxic in larger quantities.

Here's what to look out for:

• Lethargy or weakness
• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Pale gums or any unusual drooling
• Loss of appetite

If Bella consumed just a small amount, she might be just fine. Sometimes, a little tummy upset can occur, but it's not necessarily a reason to panic. However, if she seems to have eaten a large quantity of garlic or if she shows any of the signs listed above, it might be a good idea to talk with a vet.

Here's what you can do at home:

• Keep an eye on her for the next 24-48 hours for any of those symptoms.
• Ensure she has access to plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• If she shows mild symptoms, you might try feeding her bland food like plain boiled chicken and rice to help settle her stomach.

Definitely call a vet if you notice severe symptoms like extreme lethargy or intense vomiting, or if she's eaten a significant quantity of something known to be toxic.

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.