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Dog owners warned as one common autumn find could leave pets seriously ill
Tiger.co.uk said early-falling nuts can cause vomiting, blockages and rare organ damage in dogs after a hot, dry summer triggered a false autumn.
Pet insurance experts at Tiger issued a warning to dog owners regarding toxic conkers and acorns, advising vigilance during autumn walks as these items pose serious health threats if ingested.
A hot, dry summer led to a "false autumn," causing trees to shed leaves, acorns, and conkers earlier than usual to conserve water and energy, catching many dog owners unaware.
Both acorns and conkers can be toxic, causing stomach upsets and lethargy; Ian Wilson, pet insurance expert at Tiger, noted symptoms are usually manageable if dealt with swiftly.
Tiger recommends keeping dogs on a lead in high-risk areas and teaching emergency "drop" and "leave" commands, or using toys and treats to distract pets from foraging.
Wilson recommends verifying pet insurance coverage for unexpected vet bills, noting that policies may include a 24-hour helpline providing essential emergency support for owners managing toxic nut incidents.