My dog, Bella, just snagged a pretzel off the counter while I wasn't looking. Should I be freaking out? Is this dangerous for her? Do I need to call the vet? I left the pantry open, and now I'm not sure what to do. Please advise!

Hi there! Don't worry too much—let's take a breath and tackle this together. A single pretzel isn't usually dangerous for most dogs, but there are a few things to watch out for. Firstly, keep an eye on Bella for any signs of tummy trouble. Look for symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, or any changes in her appetite or energy levels. These could indicate that her stomach is upset.

The biggest concerns with pretzels might be the salt and any potential additions like seasonings or flavorings. If Bella only had one or two plain pretzels, she’s likely going to be okay, but here’s what you should do:

• Offer her a little water to help with any thirst she might have from the salt.
• Monitor her closely over the next 24-48 hours for any unusual behavior.

If she’s had a large amount or if the pretzels were heavily seasoned (think onion, garlic, or chocolate pretzels), then it’s more concerning, and you should contact your vet. Look out for these more serious but rare signs: excessive thirst, disorientation, or seizures. These would be emergencies.

For now, if she’s just her usual self, give her some love and keep your pantry door securely closed next time :)

Remember, 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.