Overview

• Animal charities reiterate that conkers and acorns are toxic to dogs and can also cause choking or dangerous gut blockages in parks, woodlands, and street-side areas.
• Owners are told to watch for rapid-onset signs such as vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, lethargy, rashes, or swelling around the eyes and mouth, which can appear within 1–6 hours and sometimes up to 48 hours.
• Head vet Sean McCormack highlights added threats this season, including fallen fruit where stones and cores pose blockage risks and fermenting fruit can trigger alcohol toxicity.
• Lungworm risk rises in damp conditions because dogs can be exposed through slugs, snails, or their slime trails, so avoiding contact and seeking prompt veterinary advice is urged.
• Rodent-control products used more frequently in autumn can be highly toxic to dogs, with warning signs including breathing difficulties, pale gums, coughing, and vomiting blood requiring immediate veterinary care.