There’s typically no reason to panic if your dog killed the squirrel before eating it, but there are several things you should do.
If your dog consumes a squirrel that was already deceased, you’ll have to investigate even if or not the squirrel had been poisoned. If you observe your dog catching a squirrel, you should try to prevent him from eating it. If you have a yard, bury the squirrel there, but make sure it’s not in a place where your dog can get to it (as he will try to dig it up). If your dog kills and eats a squirrel, the only negative effects are likely to be squirrel bites and the potential if he has picked up ticks.
Ticks may be picked up merely by being outside in the garden, so make sure your dog is always treated with a tick preventive. Ticks may spread Lyme Disease, therefore this is crucial. Lyme disease is a severe illness that causes lack of appetite, fever, joint discomfort, and lameness among its symptoms. Squirrels can spread leptospirosis in some areas. This bacterium has a negative impact on internal organs, especially the kidneys and liver.
Leptospirosis could be spread by the pee of a squirrel. If your dog comes into contact with that urine, such as if it is discharged when he is killing the squirrel, he may catch it. The potential that your dog ate a poisoned squirrel is the most concerning aspect of your dog consuming a dead squirrel.
If the squirrel ingests poison, it will pass through your dog’s system. Most medium to big dogs who consume poisoned squirrel meat will have vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy for one or two days before recovering. Smaller dogs may require immediate medical attention from a veterinarian, including supportive therapy for dehydration and respiratory issues. The following are symptoms of potential rodent poisoning in dogs:
1. Urine that is bloody
2. Bleeding from the nose
3. coughing
4. Severe diarrhea and vomiting
5. Breathing problems
6. Seizures
