- My Dog Ate a Squirrel: Why This Happens
- Okay, My Dog Chowed Down. How Long Does it Take for a Dog To Digest Squirrel?
- What To Do Immediately After Your Dog Eats a Squirrel?
- Signs to Watch Out For After the Squirrel Snack
- Potential Health Risks When a Dog Eats a Squirrel
- Preventing the Next Squirrel Incident
- Dog Ate Squirrel? Frequently Asked Questions
- Final Thoughts on The Squirrel Situation
Alright, let’s dive into this nutty situation.
Worried because your furry friend just devoured a squirrel? You’ll need to monitor your dog for any signs of distress, contact your vet, and keep the area clear of any further temptations.
Ever been there? You’re chilling in the backyard, maybe sipping on some iced tea, when BAM! Your dog transforms into a furry missile and comes back with… well, let’s just say it’s not a chew toy from Petco. A squirrel. And now you’re wondering, “Oh crap, what do I do now?”
Trust me, you’re not alone. We’ve all been there, side-eyeing our dogs, wondering if their stomach is a bottomless pit of doom. Let’s break down the whole “dog ate squirrel” saga, from digestion time to what steps you should take right now.
My Dog Ate a Squirrel: Why This Happens
Before we panic, let’s understand why our dogs turn into tiny predators in the first place. It’s not just about the thrill of the hunt (though that’s definitely part of it).
Instinct: Digging back to their wolf ancestors, it’s ingrained in them to chase and catch prey.
Movement: A scurrying squirrel triggers their chase instinct more than, say, a stationary rock.
Boredom: A bored dog is a mischievous dog. If they’re not mentally stimulated, chasing critters becomes their entertainment.
Taste?: For some dogs, the squirrel actually tastes good? I know, gross, but hey… they’re dogs.
Okay, My Dog Chowed Down. How Long Does it Take for a Dog To Digest Squirrel?
This is the million-dollar questions, right? The digestion timeline can vary, but here’s a rough idea:
Initial Digestion (Stomach): 2-8 hours
Small Intestine: About 6-8 hours where most nutrient absorption occurs.
Large Intestine: 5 hours to 2 days. Where waste is prepared for elimination.
So, expect the whole process to take anywhere from 12 hours to 2 days. Keep in mind, this is a general estimation. Size of the dog, size of the squirrel, and your dog’s individual digestive system all play a role.
What To Do Immediately After Your Dog Eats a Squirrel?
Alright, no time to waste. Here’s your action plan:
Assess the Situation: Is your dog choking? Are they breathing normally? This is your first priority.
Don’t Freak Out (Too Much): Dogs sense our stress. Stay calm to help keep them calm.
Call Your Vet: Seriously, do it. They know your dog’s history and can give you the best advice.
Watch for Symptoms: Keep a close eye on your dog for the next 24-48 hours. We’ll cover what to look for next.
Signs to Watch Out For After the Squirrel Snack
This isn’t a “set it and forget it” situation. You need to be vigilant. Be on the lookout for these red flags:
Vomiting: An obvious sign something isn’t settling well. Contact your vet ASAP.
Diarrhea: Similar to vomiting, this indicates digestive upset.
Lethargy/Weakness: A sudden drop in energy is a cause for concern.
Loss of Appetite: If your dog refuses their favorite food, something is definitely up.
Abdominal Pain/Bloating: Gently press on their belly. If they whine or seem tender, get them to the vet.
Coughing: Could be a sign of lungworm, a parasite squirrels can carry.
Seizures: Although rare, this could indicate poisoning, especially if the squirrel was baited.
Potential Health Risks When a Dog Eats a Squirrel
Now, for the not-so-fun part. There are some real risks associated with your dogs eating a squirrel:
Parasites: Squirrels can carry parasites like roundworms, tapeworms, and lungworm. Deworming medication usually takes care of this, but only your vet can diagnose them and prescribe the correct dose.
Pesticide Poisoning: If the squirrel ingested poison, your dog could get poisoned as well. Especially if the squirrel was baited. Seizures, disorientation, and trouble breathing are red flags.
Salmonellosis: This bacterial infection can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.
Trauma: Bones and other indigestible parts of the squirrel can cause internal damage.
Preventing the Next Squirrel Incident
Okay, so how do we stop this from happening again? Prevention is key.
Training: Work on recall and “leave it” commands. These are lifesavers.
Supervision: Keep a close eye on your dog when they’re outside.
Leash Up: If your dog has a high prey drive, keep them on a leash in areas with lots of squirrels.
Yard Maintenance: Keep your yard clean to deter squirrels from visiting.
Mental Stimulation: A tired and mentally stimulated dog is less likely to go hunting.
Longer Walks
Puzzle Toys
Training Sessions
Dog Ate Squirrel? Frequently Asked Questions
Can my dog get sick from eating a squirrel? Yes, they can. The risks include parasites, poisoning, and bacterial infections.
How long does it take for a dog to digest a squirrel? Roughly 12 hours to 2 days and possibly longer if there are any digestive blockages or other complications
Should I make my dog vomit after eating a squirrel? No. Do not induce vomiting without consulting your vet, as it could cause more harm.
Can my dog get rabies from eating a squirrel? While rare, it’s possible. Contact your vet immediately if you suspect rabies exposure.
* My dog seems fine after eating a squirrel. Do I still need to worry? Yes. Some issues may not show up immediately. Monitor your dog closely for 24-48 hours and consult your vet for peace of mind.
Final Thoughts on The Squirrel Situation
Look, dogs will be dogs. It happens. But by following these steps, you can minimize the potential health risks and keep your furry friend safe. Most importantly, always consult your veterinarian. They are the best resource for your dog’s health and well-being. Keep your eye on your pup and be vigilant with the steps we talked about to make sure everything is alright after your dog ate squirrel.
