Cardiguy,
We used to have a real acorn problem at our old house, but fortunately the dogs rarely messed with them. I remember one Cardi breeder being alarmed by them, but couldn't remember why. These website answered the question.
http://www.dogpatch.org/doginfo/plants.html
http://www.inch.com/~dogs/safety.html
http://petfinder.com/journalindex.cg...th/1.34.36.txt
However, IF you happen to have a pot belly pig (which another CWC breeder did) they are wonderful!
Soooo, sounds like you're going to have a busy fall keeping the deck clear for Ruby.
Debbie