My dog killed a bird and ate it. Will she get sick from eating it?

Unfortunately, it is not uncommon for dogs to eat dead animals found in the yard or on walks. Thankfully, in most cases the worst that may occur is some stomach upset (vomiting or diarrhea). Monitor for GI upset ([vomiting](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/vomiting-1/) and/or [diarrhea](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/diarrhea-1/)), lethargy, loss of appetite or abdominal pain. If your dog is behaving normally otherwise, you can [manage minor GI upset at home](https://www.petcoach.co/article/6-things-you-can-do-at-home-if-your-pet-has-diarrhea) by first withholding food for 12-24 hours. Allow small amounts of water or unflavored PediaLyte during this fasting period. Resume feeding a bland diet ( boiled boneless / skinless chicken and plain cooked white rice) in small, frequent amounts. Begin with 1 tablespoon of food every hour and gradually increase the amount if there is no vomiting. Continue feeding bland until there is no vomiting for 48 hours and/or the stool is normal then transition slowly to the regular diet. If the vomiting or diarrhea don't stop or if you see other symptoms (lethargy, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, etc.), see your veterinarian.

Cookie should be okay after eating the birds, however keep a close eye on her over the next few days as the little bones could potentially cause an issue in the gut. Keep an eye for vomiting, diarrohea and dullness. If concerned go to the vet asap. The only way to prevent this happening again is to make sure the birds are secure from the dog. You won't be able to train the dog not to eat them.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! The only thing I would be concerned about would be some vomiting or diarrhea in the next 24-48 hours just because it won’t sit in her stomach well. Otherwise I wouldn’t worry. Kisses to Kalli

It is highly unlikely that your dog touching a bird will cause any illness. While there is no way to know with certainty, dogs are always outside touching things they shouldn't be, and eating gross stuff like animal poop, carcasses, and puddle water. Their immune systems are built much tougher than ours fortunately, so unless you start seeing any clinical signs of illness I would not spend too much time worrying about this. Hope this helps!

Hello. Asta should be just fine, although she might throw the bird up. There is a chance of stomach upset if the bird was already dead, so if anytime in the next few days Asta starts vomiting, develops diarrhea, stops eating or just seem to feel unwell, please contact your veterinarian for recommended treatment. Otherwise, her stomach should be able to digest a small bird. Thanks for contacting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While he could develop stomach upset resulting in gastrointestinal signs like vomiting and diarrhea, I think it is more likely that Jeter will be just fine. If he does develop symptoms, have him evaluated by a veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. In that case, they may be able to administer medications to support him until he feels better. Good luck and have a great day!

Hello, thank you for your question about Luna. Generally, the viruses/diseases that dogs are vaccinated for are not commonly transmitted from ingesting dead birds or other animals. However, it is possible that Luna may experience GI upset or a GI infection secondary to this. If Luna develops any vomiting, diarrhea, or inappetance I would recommend having her evaluated by your veterinarian. In the meantime to try and help settle her stomach you could offer her a bland diet such as boiled chicken/hamburger and white rice. Hope this helps, good luck!