Autumn is a beautiful time of the year but can also bring potential dangers.

Acorn and conker poisoning is a serious condition in livestock and pets. caused by ingesting large amounts of acorns or conkers even their leaves and bark, which contain toxins. They're also a severe choking hazard.

Contact your vet immediately if you suspect your animal has ingested any as its crucial to not wait as early action is key.

Signs may include:

• Loss of appetite

• Depression

• Dehydration

• Excessive urination (may contain blood)

• Vomiting

• Diarrhoea

• Jaundice (yellowing of skin)

• Constipation

• Swelling of the chest and abdomen (bloat)

• Death – severely affected animals die within 24 to 72 hours

Prevention tips:

• Keep dogs on a leash when on walks. Introduce a command like 'drop' or 'leave' with your dog.

• Avoid keeping livestock in fields where the trees may grow.

• Make sure there is alternate food source available so they're less liking to graze by the trees.

• Clear fallen acorns and conkers from your garden.