I accidentally left the pantry open and Bella got into the tomato sauce. Should I be freaking out? Do I need to call a vet? Is this dangerous for dogs? I'm really worried!

Hey there! First off, take a deep breath – I'm here to help. Bella getting into the tomato sauce isn't uncommon, and generally, it's not something to panic about.

Most tomato sauces contain ingredients like tomatoes (which are generally okay for dogs in small amounts), but they often have a mix of other things that could be less friendly, like onions or garlic. Here’s what to keep an eye out for:

• Watch for symptoms: Mild digestive upset like vomiting or diarrhea might occur. Also, look for any signs of lethargy, drooling, or abdominal discomfort.
• An emergency: If you see Bella having trouble breathing, experiencing swelling, excessive drooling, or if she's extremely lethargic, these could be signs of a more serious reaction.

Since most dogs don’t ingest a large volume of sauce, severe symptoms are rare. But if she did eat a lot, especially if the sauce contained onions or garlic in larger amounts, those can be tricky for dogs.

If Bella seems okay now but you're still worried, you can:

• Offer her plenty of fresh water to help flush out any preservatives or salts.
• Monitor her behavior and stools over the next day or so for any changes.

If she starts tossing her kibble multiple times, poops on the unusual side, or just isn't her normal, waggy self, then it's time to ring up your vet. Better safe than sorry!

Remember, it's always better to err on the side of caution. 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.