just got home from the dog park and realized i left my sandwich out, which now seems to be missing... did my dog just eat my spam?? my partner insists it's fine but i'm suspicious. do i need to prepare for any, uh, unpleasant surprises?

Hi there! I know it can be a bit concerning when our furry friends get into something they shouldn’t, but don’t worry, I’m here to help. If your dog ate your spam sandwich, here’s what to keep an eye on:

• Watch for any signs of an upset stomach, like vomiting, diarrhea, or a decrease in appetite. These are the most common after dogs eat new or unusual foods.
• Spam is quite high in fat and salt, which can sometimes lead to digestive issues. If your dog just had a small amount, it’s probably okay, but too much could cause some tummy troubles.
• If you notice your dog being unusually lethargic, having difficulty breathing, swelling, or any signs of pain (like whining or not wanting to move), those are more serious symptoms and should be checked out by a vet immediately.

For now, just keep an eye on your pup. Make sure they have fresh water available, as high salt content might make them a little thirsty. Monitor their bathroom habits and general behavior over the next 24 hours.

If all seems well after this time, your pup probably just enjoyed a sneaky treat. But if you do see any concerning symptoms, especially ones that don’t seem to improve, or if they ate a lot of spam, it’s a good idea to give your vet a call.

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.