My dog, Bella, just snagged a citronella candle off the counter and chewed it up. Should I be freaking out? Is citronella safe for dogs? Do I need to call the vet? I'm so worried!

Hi there! First, take a deep breath. It's understandable to be worried, but let's go through this together.

Citronella candles aren't the safest for dogs, but a one-time nibble might not be a cause for panic. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Gastrointestinal upset: This might include vomiting or diarrhea. Keep an eye out for these as they can be common after eating something unusual.
• Lethargy or weakness: If Bella seems extra tired or not herself, that's something to note.
• Breathing or coordination issues: These are signs to get immediate help.

If Bella just has a mild stomach upset, it's usually not an emergency. Here's what you can do at home:

• Remove any leftover candle pieces from her reach to prevent more chewing.
• Offer her water to help flush out her system.
• Monitor her for the next 24 hours for any changes in behavior or new symptoms.

However, if Bella shows any of these signs:

• Repeated vomiting or has diarrhea that doesn't resolve
• Shows signs of lack of coordination or trouble breathing
• Refuses to eat or drink for more than 12 hours

Then it's time to get in touch with your vet, as these could be signs of a more serious reaction.

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.