My dog Max has diarrhea but seems totally fine otherwise. Should I be freaking out? We had a pantry mishap and he might've eaten something he shouldn’t. Is this dangerous? Do I need to call a vet or wait it out? Feeling so overwhelmed right now!

Hey there! You're doing great by reaching out and keeping an eye on Max. Diarrhea can be alarming, but if he's acting normal otherwise, there are a few steps you can take to help him at home.

Keep an eye out for a few key things:

• If Max is still playful, drinking water, and eating his usual food, that's a good sign.
• Watch for any signs of vomiting, lethargy, or if his diarrhea becomes more frequent, especially if it's very watery or contains blood. That's when it becomes more concerning.
• Monitor for dehydration; check his gums for moisture and give him the "skin tent" test by gently lifting some skin at the back of his neck—if it snaps back quickly, that's a positive sign.

If you're sure he got into something unusual during the pantry mishap, try to think about what it could have been. For instance:

• Chocolate, grapes/raisins, onions, or anything with alcohol can be quite toxic, depending on the amount eaten and his size.
• If he ate chocolate, a small amount of milk chocolate might not be terrible, but dark or baking chocolate is more serious. Contact a vet immediately if you think he ate large quantities, as this can be toxic.

For now, here's what you can try at home:

• Provide plenty of fresh water to keep him hydrated.
• Consider a bland diet for the next 24-48 hours—boiled chicken and white rice usually settle stomachs.
• Observe him closely for the next 24 hours.

Be sure to give us a call if:

• His symptoms worsen or new symptoms like vomiting or extreme lethargy appear.
• He shows signs of significant discomfort or pain.
• Your gut is telling you something's not right—always trust your instincts!

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.