Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dog with acorn poisoning and kidney failure treated by dialysis
By Jung, Soyoung et al.·Published in The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne·2026·Department of Veterinary Internal Medicine, South Korea·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Successful hemodialysis treatment of suspected acorn toxicosis in a Bedlington terrier.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 17-month-old neutered male Bedlington terrier was brought to the vet after showing signs of vomiting, lethargy, and not urinating much. Tests revealed severe kidney damage likely caused by eating dried acorns over the past week. The dog didn't improve with regular fluid treatment, but his condition got better after receiving hemodialysis, a procedure that helps filter toxins from the blood. This case highlights the serious risks acorns pose to dogs and the importance of quick treatment to prevent severe kidney injury.
People also search for: dog vomiting lethargy acorn poisoning · Bedlington terrier kidney injury treatment · hemodialysis for dogs
Abstract
A 17-month-old neutered male Bedlington terrier weighing 5.4 kg was presented because of vomiting, lethargy, and oliguria. Serum chemistry analysis revealed severe azotemia and ultrasonography revealed hyperechoic renal cortices. Acorn-induced acute kidney injury was suspected based on the animal's history of eating dried acorns over the previous 8 d. The dog did not respond to conventional intravenous fluid therapy, but his condition improved with intermittent hemodialysis. Although acorn intoxication is well documented in grazing animals, including cattle, it has rarely been reported in dogs. Acorns can cause acute kidney or liver injury, with high mortality rates. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported canine case of acorn toxicosis successfully treated with hemodialysis. The case findings indicate the importance of raising awareness among pet owners about the potential life-threatening effects of consuming acorns, particularly in regions where animals' exposure to acorns is likely. Key clinical message: Acorn ingestion can cause life-threatening acute kidney injury in dogs. Early recognition and timely intervention with hemodialysis can result in successful outcomes.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/42095174/