Lucy grabbed something off the counter and now I'm hearing about bird flu in dogs. Should I be freaking out? Is this dangerous? Do I need to call a vet right away? What should I be looking for? I'm so worried!

Hi there, I'm sorry to hear you're worried! Let's try to tackle this together and keep calm. It's possible that Lucy picked up something harmless, but it's always good to be cautious. Bird flu in dogs is quite rare, so try not to jump to conclusions.

First, do you know what she ate? If not, let's monitor her for these symptoms:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Lethargy or unusual tiredness
• Coughing or sneezing
• Difficulty breathing
• Lack of appetite
• Fever or warm ears

If she shows any of these signs, particularly difficulty breathing or severe vomiting/diarrhea, call a vet right away. Such symptoms can escalate, and it's better to be safe. However, if she's her usual playful self and just has one or two mild symptoms, you can monitor her for a few hours. Make sure she drinks plenty of water and has a quiet space to rest.

Has she been exposed to anything like chocolate, grapes, xylitol (found in sugar-free gum), or onions? Keep an eye out for non-food items like medications, which can be toxic. Even small amounts can be harmful. For instance, as little as 50 mg/kg of chocolate can be dangerous, and with paracetamol, immediate veterinary attention is needed.

Ensure she's comfortable, offer her bland food like boiled chicken and rice if she's hungry, and encourage her to drink water. Keep monitoring her closely. If there's no improvement, she appears in pain, or something just doesn't feel right, it's best to get in touch with 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. Take care!