As we move into Autumn, it is worth remembering the dangers of conkers to our canine friends. Conkers usually start to fall from Horse Chestnut trees in late September through to early October and pose a real danger to our four legged friends. This is due to a chemical component in the seed called aesculin, which is also present in the bark and leaves of horse chestnut trees.

Conkers are extremely bitter and this usually deters dogs from eating them, but every Autumn, several pets fall ill due to ingesting them, especially if children unknowingly throw them to play catch.

Some of the signs of conker poisoning include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Drooling

• Abdominal pain

• Disorientation

• Excessive thirst

• Loss of appetite

• Seizures

• Muscle tremors

A high dose of aesculin, caused by eating several conkers, can affect the central nervous system and might even prove fatal, especially to puppies who are more inquisitive. Conkers can also be a choking hazard and obstruct the dog's bowel which could potentially lead to surgery. Luckily with the correct treatment most dogs recover from conker poisoning.

If you think your pet has eaten conkers, please phone us at Coquet Vets on 01665 252250 for help and advice.