so Bella just decided the ant trap was her new chew toy while I was grilling in the backyard—should I be worried or is this just a dog thing?

Hey there! First of all, don't panic—let's work through this together. Dogs often find the most interesting things to chew on, and Bella isn’t the first pup to discover ant traps. Here's what you should do:

Most ant traps contain small amounts of borax or other such substances that are generally low in toxicity to dogs, but it's good to keep a watchful eye. Here are a few symptoms to look out for:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive drooling
• Lethargy or lack of coordination
• Loss of appetite

If Bella only nibbled a little or simply licked it, she might not show any issues. However, if she ate a good chunk of it or if you notice any worrying symptoms, it's always better to call your vet.

Consider it an emergency if she starts showing severe symptoms such as persistent vomiting, very loose stools, or difficulty breathing. For these, don't wait; reach out to your vet right away.

At home, just make sure Bella has access to plenty of fresh water, and monitor her closely over the next few hours. If she has any dust or powder around her mouth, gently wipe it away with a damp cloth.

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.