Many common summer plants contain toxins that can cause severe health problems or even death in dogs if eaten.
Here are ten dangerous plants to watch out for:
- Oleander is highly toxic, causing severe heart issues and can be fatal.
- Sago Palm ingestion causes liver failure, seizures, and death even in small amounts.
- Azaleas and Rhododendrons cause vomiting, drooling, and potentially coma or death.
- Hydrangeas cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and lethargy.
- Daffodils and their bulbs can cause severe gastrointestinal issues, convulsions, and heart problems.
- Foxgloves can cause heart failure and death.
- Tulips and their bulbs are particularly toxic, causing gastrointestinal irritation and central nervous system problems.
- Lily of the Valley can cause heart arrhythmias and respiratory failure.
- Chrysanthemums cause gastrointestinal upset and incoordination.
- Autumn Crocus ingestion leads to severe vomiting, liver and kidney damage, and respiratory failure.
What to do if your dog eats a toxic plant:
Identify the plant your dog ingested.
Remove access to prevent any further ingestion.
Contact your vet or an emergency animal clinic immediately. Give them information about the plant and quantity eaten, then follow their instructions.
Puppy and dog proofing your outside space:
- Identify plants that may be harmful and remove them or prevent your dog accessing them.
- Always supervise your dog outdoors.
- Create a safe dog zone using pens or temporary barriers.
- Pop your dog on lead in unfamiliar areas.
- Teach your do a reliable “leave” cue.
One last thing...
Basket muzzles when introduced positively, can be a super useful tool to keep serial scavengers safe and prevent them eating things they shouldn’t! Muzzles are a great safety tool and I support the Muzzle Up education project whole-heartedly.
