quick question: I was making pesto pasta for dinner and Bella was giving me those puppy eyes. Can dogs even have pesto, or should I find her a different treat? Not sure if this is a dumb question!

Hey there! Great question — it's always smart to check what's safe before sharing your meal with your furry friend. As tasty as pesto is, certain ingredients in it can be harmful to dogs. Traditional pesto usually includes garlic, which is actually toxic to dogs in large quantities. Even in small amounts, garlic can cause upset stomach or worse if consumed regularly.

Keep an eye out for signs like vomiting, diarrhea, or signs of weakness after Bella snags a taste. These symptoms might indicate an upset stomach or, in the case of significant garlic consumption, anemia. Immediate vet attention is needed if Bella experiences any difficulty breathing, lethargy, or if the vomiting and diarrhea persist.

If Bella just got a little lick or nibble, she's probably going to be just fine, but it's best to keep pesto out of her reach in the future. Instead, consider sharing a dog-friendly veggie or a small piece of plain cooked pasta as a treat.

For now, just monitor her closely. Provide her with fresh water and let her rest comfortably. If you notice any worrying symptoms, don't hesitate to reach out to a vet.

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.