Has My Dog Eaten a Slug Or a Snail?

While it can be alarming to discover your dog has eaten something unfamiliar during a walk, it's important not to panic. A pup’s tendency to explore mouth first sometimes leads them to ingest things they shouldn't. Understanding the potential risks associated with certain items, such as slugs or snails, will enable you to respond appropriately.  

Slugs and snails themselves are not inherently poisonous to your pooch. However, the primary concern lies in what these gastropods may be carrying. Slugs and snails are known vectors for parasites, most notably is lungworm (Angiostrongylus vasorum). Lungworm can cause quite serious health issues in dogs, including respiratory problems, bleeding disorders, and even heart failure if left untreated. 

Slugs and snails can also come into contact with toxic chemicals designed to keep them off gardens and plants. These substances can be highly toxic when ingested by your pup. While slugs and snails are not directly poisonous, the potential for them to carry harmful parasites or toxic substances makes it crucial to monitor and prevent your furry friend from consuming them. Taking preventative measures, such as garden maintenance and keeping a close eye on your dog during walks, can help lower these risks. 

While the thought of your dog eating a slug or snail can be distressing, it's important to remain calm and assess the situation carefully. There are just a few key effects to watch for if your dog ingests one of these critters. Monitoring your furry friend for any signs of illness will allow for prompt treatment, should they need it.  

In some rare cases, the ingestion of multiple snails can lead to foreign body obstruction in their stomach or intestines. The hard shells of these animals can accumulate and cause blockages in the digestive tract, leading to severe gastrointestinal distress. Symptoms to watch for include repeated vomiting, decreased appetite, and signs of abdominal pain. If you suspect your pooch may be experiencing an obstruction due to snail ingestion, it is crucial to seek veterinary care immediately. While one or two snails aren’t likely to cause an issue, they can’t digest the shell portion of their body so eating a large number can cause a serious issue that may need surgery to fix.  

If your dog consumes enough slugs or snails that have ingested toxic snail pellets from gardens, it is imperative to recognise the signs of poisoning. Symptoms can vary depending on the type of poison used in the pellets, but common indicators include tremors, muscle stiffness, and seizures. Your dog may also exhibit unusual lethargy, excessive drooling, or sudden vomiting and diarrhoea.  

Neurological symptoms such as unsteady walking, confusion, and unusual eye movements might also be spotted. If you notice any of these signs, it’s essential to seek urgent veterinary care. Snail pellet poisoning can rapidly progress and become life threatening if not treated promptly. Getting them to the vet quickly if you notice any symptoms means that their vet can run rests like bloodwork and provide supportive fluids to get them back on track.  

The most likely risk to your pup when eating slugs and snails is a lungworm infection. Lungworms (Angiostrongylus vasorum) are parasites that can infect dogs through the consumption of infected slugs and snails. Once ingested, the larvae migrate through the dog's body, ultimately maturing in the heart and pulmonary arteries. This parasitic infection can lead to serious health issues, impacting the respiratory, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. 

Symptoms of lungworm infection can vary but often include persistent coughing, lethargy, weight loss, and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, your canine companion may develop blood clotting disorders, which can result in nosebleeds, anaemia, or even sudden collapse. Regularly checking your garden for slugs and snails and preventing your dog from eating them can significantly reduce the risk of lungworm infection. If you suspect your pup might have been exposed, it is crucial to consult your veterinarian promptly. Early detection makes all the difference when it comes to treating the parasite. 

If you suspect your dog has eaten a slug or snail, act quickly. If it’s safe to do so, remove any remaining slugs or snails from your furry friend’s mouth to limit how much they can eat. Monitor your pooch for symptoms such as coughing, lethargy, or unusual bleeding. You should contact your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend bringing your dog in for examination and potentially administering a deworming treatment just to be on the safe side. You might not even need to take them to the vet but you should keep a close eye on their behaviour over the next few days for any changes.  

If your dog seems unwell after eating snails, you should contact your vet as soon as you can. If you give your vet their symptoms and they’re concerned, they will ask you to come in for an appointment for an exam. The vet may conduct various diagnostic tests, including blood tests and chest X-rays, to identify any potential poisoning or lungworm infection.  

Early diagnosis is crucial as it allows for prompt treatment, including deworming medications or supportive therapies, ensuring the best chance for your pup's recovery. There is often no cure for poisonings but they will be kept in to keep a close eye on and provide support as it goes through their system. Monitoring your dog closely and seeking timely veterinary care can make a significant difference in their health outcome. 

Prevention is the best strategy to protect your dog from the dangers of eating slugs and snails. Start by managing your garden or outdoor spaces to make them less appealing to these gastropods. Regularly remove fallen leaves, debris, and any organic material where slugs and snails may hide. Consider using pet safe slug and snail repellents, which can deter these pests without posing a risk to your dog. If you can create barriers like out of things like crushed eggshells or copper tape, it can help keep slugs and snails away from key areas your pooch frequents. 

Training your dog to avoid interacting with slugs and snails can also be highly effective. Teach cues like "leave it" or "no" to discourage your dog from picking up these creatures. Consistent reinforcement of these cues can significantly reduce the likelihood of your dog ingesting slugs or snails. Supervise your canine companion during outdoor activities, and promptly remove any slugs or snails you encounter to minimise risks. If they get used to you pulling out a treat every time they see one of these pests, they will even start to look to you and tell you when they spot one so they can get their tasty reward!  

For added safety, consider timing your doggy’s outdoor activities strategically. Slugs and snails are more active during early morning or after rainfall so try to avoid letting your dog roam freely during these times. By combining environmental management, proper training, and vigilant supervision, you can greatly reduce the risk of your dog eating slugs and snails, ensuring their well-being. 

If your furry friend has a persistent habit of eating things they find while out and about, you can train them to wear a muzzle as an extra precaution. A properly fitted muzzle can prevent your dog from picking up slugs, snails, or any other harmful objects during walks. Ensure that the muzzle chosen allows your dog to pant and drink water comfortably. You should always introduce the muzzle in a positive manner, using treats and praise to associate it with a pleasant experience.  

Gradually increase the duration your pooch wears the muzzle, and soon it will become a normal part of their outdoor routine. This method provides an additional layer of safety, making it an effective solution for protecting your dog from the dangers of eating unwanted items. They will be able to run off lead and be trusted out and about without the risk of picking up and eating things they shouldn’t.  

Discovering that your dog has eaten a slug or snail can be alarming, but with prompt action and proper care, you can protect your furry friend from serious harm. Remember to stay calm, monitor your dog closely, and consult your vet. By taking preventive measures, you can help ensure that your dog avoids these slimy critters in the future.