The everyday items that can pose a risk to dogs if eaten
Dr Katrina Warren answers some common questions from 9Honey Pets readers.
Can dogs eat Vegemite?
Vegemite is not recommended for dogs. While Vegemite doesn't contain poisonous ingredients to dogs, it has a very high salt content, which can be dangerous.
Vegemite should only be given occasionally and in tiny quantities – some people find it helpful when requiring their dog to consume medication if the tablet has a thin layer of Vegemite covering it.
If your dog has snuck a piece of Vegemite toast or eaten a small amount, it should be OK. But if they have consumed a large amount or a whole jar of Vegemite, contact your veterinarian immediately.
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Vegemite is not good for dogs due to the very high salt content. Facebook
Is agapanthus poisonous to dogs?
The popular plant agapanthus can be toxic to dogs, and may cause gastrointestinal irritation if consumed with symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea.
The dogs usually need to consume a large quantity to become unwell, and many pets do not like the taste.
If you have a pet that chews plants, you should restrict their access. Puppies are more likely to chew up any plant and should not have access to agapanthus.
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Puppies tend to chew whatever they find. iStock
Other plants to watch for include aloe vera, jasmine, chrysanthemums, azaleas, and rhododendrons; most bulbs such as daffodil bulbs are also dangerous to dogs if chewed.
My dog keeps eating her own poo – how do I stop this foul habit?
As part of their exploratory behaviour, puppies pick up anything and everything with their mouths. This habit of eating poo is called coprophagia, and is extremely common in puppies.
It is something that most puppies eventually grow out of, although some adult dogs continue the habit.
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Dr Katrina Warren says that most dogs will eventually grow out of this yucky habit. Facebook
The best thing you can do is be diligent with picking up her poo quickly, so she doesn't have access to it and also start teaching her the command 'leave it'.
This can apply to 'leaving' anything – e.g. food on the ground, an item on the floor, or poo. Give her lots of praise and treats for 'leaving' the item alone.
Eating her own poo will generally be harmless, but other poo may contain parasites, viruses or toxins and should not be allowed. If you start walking on the streets with her, keep her on a short leash so she can't access any poo.