National
Dog owners warned to watch for blue-button jellyfish on Queensland beaches
Jellyfish-related dog illnesses have Queensland vets concerned, with blue button jellyfish spotted on southern beaches.
Dog owners have been warned to keep a look out for the jellyfish, with vets saying ingestion can harm dogs.
The size of a 10-cent piece, the blue button jellyfish can cause stings, and discomfort to your dog if eaten.
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They appear on beaches when north-easterly winds blow in.
Veterinary nurse, Raylee Harvey said one of her furry patients, Penny the two-year-old Groodle, suffered from a blue button sting after eating one on a beach in Tallebudgera.
“On her way here she was eating a towel trying to relieve what was going on,” Ms Harvey said.
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She added that the stings can be very uncomfortable for your dog, urging pet-owners to contact a vet straight away.
“That is the fatal part if we don’t get in and remove everything in time,” Ms Harvey said.
If your pet is stung by a blue button jellyfish, it’s important to gently remove the stinger, without rubbing, then rinse off the area and phone your vet.
Most stings are non-fatal but will cause irritation to your dog, with symptoms including licking and itching or nausea and vomiting.
