quick question—so Bella just polished off an entire stick of butter she swiped during our BBQ. Is this a thing I should be worried about, or is it just one of those dogs will be dogs moments?

Hey there! No need to panic—Bella's little butter escapade is quite common among our furry friends. Here's what you can expect and keep an eye on:

First off, eating a stick of butter isn't toxic, but it can cause some tummy upset. Here are a few things to watch for:

• Upset stomach: Bella might experience vomiting or diarrhea. If this happens, it's usually mild and will pass in a day or so.
• Bloating and gas: Butter is very rich, and too much fat can sometimes lead to bloating or excess gas.
• Pancreatitis: In some dogs, consuming a lot of fat can trigger pancreatitis, which is inflammation of the pancreas. Symptoms include persistent vomiting, belly pain, and lethargy.

As for what's an emergency:

• If Bella can't keep any food or water down and is vomiting repeatedly, she seems extremely lethargic, or if her stomach looks bloated and painful, then a vet visit is definitely needed.

At home, just keep an eye on her. You can offer small amounts of water and bland food like boiled chicken and rice if she seems hungry. Monitor her behavior and bathroom habits for the next day or so.

Always better to be on the safe side. 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.