Your dogs’ unpredictable behaviors are one of the reasons why you love them. They often begin their walks with a calm demeanor and eventually have zoomies as they’re too happy to be outside. They might even start picking up items from the ground because of their excitement.
But regardless of how much you pay attention to your dogs’ behaviors, they can still manage to eat things they shouldn’t behind your back. Situations like these can be stressful and frustrating, especially if you notice your dogs eating lizards.
Dogs should never eat lizards because it can adversely affect their health in many ways, namely:
Poisoning
Poisonous lizards do exist, and some are known to roam freely, especially in the Southern and Northern parts of America. Poisonous lizards are capable of killing dogs or putting them in life-threatening conditions.
Some of the most common symptoms of poisoning are:
- Difficulty in breathing;
- Dizziness;
- Glossy or bloodshot eyes;
- Lethargy; and
- Vomiting.
Parasites
Lizards can carry intestinal parasites, which can take a toll on your dogs’ health when they consume lizards. Lizards often get infected by pinworms, roundworms, and hookworms. Once your dogs consume lizards with parasites, the parasites will transfer to your dogs’ bodies, and they will develop several symptoms, such as:
- Diarrhea;
- Dehydration;
- Lethargy;
- Nutritional deficiencies; and
- Weight loss.
Salmonella
Just like other reptiles, lizards can also carry salmonella. This bacteria is commonly found on the skin and guts of lizards. When your dogs eat lizards with salmonella, they can immediately experience gastroenteritis, followed by excessive vomiting and diarrhea.
Blockages
Another concern when your dogs eat lizards is blockages. Lizards are tough to chew and digest and can easily get lodged in your dogs’ throats and intestines. When left untreated, the lizard can block your dogs’ digestive systems, making it very challenging for them to consume other foods. This will likely happen if your dogs swallowed lizards whole.
Bites
When your dogs encounter lizards, it can go both ways — the lizard may bite your dogs’ mouths or tongues as your dogs try to swallow the lizard. This can cause severe swelling and extreme discomfort in your pets.
How Can You Prevent Your Dogs From Eating Lizards?
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to prevent your dogs from eating lizards again, namely:
Harness Your Dogs
Whenever you’re out and about, make sure to harness your dogs. Keep an eye on the items they sniff or eat, especially when you’re fond of taking walks in areas or environments that might have lizards and other reptiles.
Get a Lizard or Reptile Repellent
Invest in a lizard or reptile repellent to minimize lizards visiting your property. This product is widely available almost anywhere — you can even get one from online stores, such as Amazon.
You can also use natural repellants, such as cayenne pepper and hot sauce. Mix them with a pint of warm water and spray the mixture around the corners of your home. Cayenne pepper and hot sauce emit a strong smell that deters lizards and other reptiles.
Teach Your Dogs the “Leave It” Command
Exert time and effort to teach your dogs the “leave it” command. This will stop them from going near or even attempting to eat lizards and other reptiles when they’re outside.
To start, tell your dogs to “leave it” and then drop a piece of food to the ground. When your dogs ignore the food, reward their behavior with treats. Repeat this process several times until your dogs are able to remain calm even when food is in front of them.
Have Treats On Hand
You can also call your dogs and give them treats once they come in contact with lizards. This will divert their attention and prevent them from eating lizards. Just make sure that you keep a close eye on your dogs whenever you’re outside, so you can act fast when lizards are around.
Keep Your Dogs Inside
Because of their size, lizards are easy prey for your dogs. Keeping your fur babies indoors is one of the best solutions to prevent your dogs from eating lizards. If you’re eyeing to take this route, supply your dogs with different toys and activities indoors, so they won’t wander outdoors without your consent.
Seek Professional Help ASAP
Lizards can take a toll on your dogs’ health, which is why you should take them to the vet the moment you notice they eat lizards. Don’t attempt to treat your dogs with DIY solutions because, in most cases, taking this route will only worsen the symptoms.
Visit your vet immediately if you see your dogs eating lizards or if you suspect they ate one. The sooner you do this, the better chances your dogs have of surviving the ordeal.