Dog walkers warned about dangers of conkers

A canine first aid expert is urging dog walkers to be conker aware after treating pets who have ingested the poisonous item.

Conkers contain a toxin which, if eaten by a dog, can cause them to vomit, have diarrhea or even collapse.

Qualified veterinary nurse Rachel Bean, who wrote the iPET Network’s qualification in Canine First Aid, said: “Conkers seem to be a celebrated part of autumn starting, but every year my practice sees pets who have ingested conkers, and devastated owners who simply didn’t realise that aesculin, which is found in the tree fruit is toxic to dogs.”

Bean, an ambassador for the national Safe Pets and People campaign that is calling for mandatory first aid qualifications for all pet professionals, added: “Vomiting is the most common effect after ingestion of conkers and other potential signs include abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and lethargy. Again, gastrointestinal obstruction is a potential risk.

“It is important to be aware on your walks out of the house too, as they can present like a ball to playful pups, which can lead to them chewing and ingesting them.”