Can Dogs Get Sick from Eating Goose Poop?

Dogs are notorious for eating things they shouldn’t, including goose poop. While it may seem harmless or even natural for a dog to indulge in this behavior, some potential health risks are involved.

In this blog, we will explore whether or not dogs can get sick from eating goose poop and what the potential dangers may be.

Potential Risks of Eating Goose Poop

Geese are known carriers of various diseases and parasites, and their droppings can harbor a multitude of harmful bacteria and pathogens.

When a dog consumes goose poop, they are essentially ingesting all of these potential hazards. Some of the most common risks associated with eating goose poop include the following:

Bacterial Infections

Goose droppings can contain harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella, both of which can cause serious gastrointestinal issues in dogs. ^[1]

These bacteria can lead to symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration, and in severe cases, they may even result in kidney failure or septicemia.

Parasitic Infections

In addition to bacteria, goose poop may also contain parasites such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium. These parasites can wreak havoc on a dog’s digestive system, leading to symptoms such as diarrhea, weight loss, and fatigue.

In some cases, these parasites can be difficult to eradicate and may require extensive treatment from a veterinarian.

Toxic Substances

Geese often graze on lawns and fields where pesticides and other potentially toxic substances may be present. When a dog consumes goose poop, they may also ingest these harmful chemicals, leading to symptoms such as vomiting, seizures, and organ damage.

This can be particularly dangerous if the goose poop has been found in an area where pesticides or herbicides have been used.

Signs that Your Dog May Be Sick

If your dog has eaten goose poop, it’s important to be vigilant for any signs that they may be feeling unwell. Some common symptoms of illness related to consuming goose poop include:

Gastrointestinal Distress

If your dog is experiencing vomiting, diarrhea, or is showing signs of discomfort in their abdomen, these could be indications that they have ingested something harmful from the goose poop. It’s important to monitor these symptoms closely and seek veterinary care if they persist or worsen.

Lethargy

If your dog seems unusually tired or lacks their usual energy levels, this could be a sign of a potential illness. Goose poop can contain parasites that may cause fatigue and weakness in dogs, so it’s crucial to keep an eye on their overall demeanor and behavior.

Changes in Appetite

If your dog suddenly loses their appetite or starts refusing food, this could be a red flag that something is amiss. Goose poop can contain harmful bacteria that may cause a loss of appetite or overall disinterest in food.

Preventing Your Dog from Eating Goose Poop

While it can be challenging to prevent your dog from indulging in their less-than-desirable snacking habits, there are some measures you can take to minimize the risk of them consuming goose poop:

Supervise Your Dog

If you’re in an area where geese are present, such as parks or fields, make sure to keep a close eye on your dog and redirect their attention if they start showing interest in goose droppings. Keeping them on a leash and under your supervision can help prevent them from consuming anything harmful.

Teach the ‘Leave It’ Command

Training your dog to obey the “leave it” command can be incredibly useful in preventing them from consuming potentially harmful substances. By teaching them to leave things alone on command, you can intervene before they have a chance to eat goose poop.

Keep Your Yard Clean

If you have geese visiting your yard, make sure to clean up any droppings promptly to prevent your dog from coming into contact with them. Keeping your yard free of goose poop can help reduce the risk of your dog consuming it.

Frequently Asked Questions About Can Dogs Get Sick From Eating Goose Poop?

Conclusion

While it may seem harmless, allowing your dog to eat goose poop can pose significant health risks. From bacterial infections to toxic substances, the potential dangers are numerous.

By being aware of the risks and taking steps to prevent your dog from consuming goose poop, you can help keep them safe and healthy.

Reference Links:

1. PetMD Editorial. (2020, October 13). Digestive problems in pets: Causes, signs and treatments. PetMD.
2. Giardia: Infection, treatment and prevention. (2024, January 19). Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine.