Dogs and Palm Oil: How to spot the dangerous substance on the beach, symptoms and when to go to the vet

Beaches are a great place to walk your dog - but you need to be aware that dangerous items could wash up in the tide.

There are hidden dangers for your dog when you go for a walk on the beach - including palm oil.

If you're unlucky a walk on the sand can turn into a dangerous and potentially life-threatening experience.

A dog on a beach in Pembrokeshire has died recently due to eating a substance thought to be palm oil.

While it's a rare occurence to come across the substance - and ever rarer for a dog to eat it - it's important to know what to look out for should the worst happen.

To help out dog experts Kennel Store have explained the risk palm oil poses to dogs when ingested, and the symptoms of poisoning. 

What does palm oil look like?

 Palm oil is semi- solid and appears in white lumps and is waxy in appearance, and smells has a distinctive smell; similar to diesel. 

Why is it harmful?

 Because palm oil is often found in a semi solid state, it can pose a risk to dogs as it can cause blockages in the digestive system. 

Symptoms of palm oil ingestion

• Diarrhoea
• Vomiting
• Dehydration
• Intestinal blockage
• Lethargy
• In extreme cases, pancreatitis

When to contact a vet

 Due to the solid state of palm oil, it’s important you contact a vet as this an intestinal blockage is considered a veterinary emergency. In some instances, when consumed in large quantities dogs have suffered from kidney damage andliver failure, so medical intervention is vital. Even if your dog has consumed a small amount, monitor your dog and if they show signs of becoming unwell, contact a vet as soon as possible.