Why it is dangerous to dogs
Slug pellets are scattered on flower beds and vegetable patches, and the packs are kept in sheds. They are made with bran or other ingredients that attract slugs, so a dog readily eats them from a bed or a torn pack.
Some pellets contain metaldehyde. It quickly causes restlessness, muscle tremors and seizures and raises the body temperature dangerously. Pellets with other active substances are considered milder, but they can still harm a dog. The amount that causes harm differs from dog to dog and cannot be judged at home.
If your dog may have eaten slug pellets, contact a vet or an emergency clinic straight away, even if it seems well. Tell them when it could have happened, and take the packaging with you.
What to watch out for
- Drooling, restlessness and muscle tremors can follow.
- Seizures can develop.
- The body temperature can rise dangerously.
- The dog can stagger and lose control of its movements.
- Pellets scattered on beds stay there a long time, and a dog can find them in a neighbour's garden too.
What it can cause
Signs that can appear after eating it. Each page explains what to look out for and when to hurry to a vet.