Table of Contents
With spring in full bloom, a vet has issued a timely warning to dog owners about the potential dangers lurking in their gardens.
As we quickly approach summer, many gardening enthusiasts are feeling inspired to get out and tend to their gardens, but pet owners are urged to be vigilant about the shrub species they choose to plant and grow.
The UK-based experts at Soto Gardens and Tails.com have compiled a list of four species of spring plants that could cause serious harm to your dog and provide more advice on how to treat your furry friend in case they do. get sick due to poisoning.
Sean McCormack, head veterinarian at Tails.com, also offers four safer species alternatives to plant.
By selecting pet-friendly flora and being aware of potential dangers, gardeners can create a safe and harmonious environment for both their beloved dogs and prized plants.
The UK-based experts at Soto Gardens and Tails.com have compiled a list of four species of spring plants that could cause serious harm to your dog (stock image)
1. Daffodils
While daffodils add a splash of vibrant color to gardens, all parts of the plant, especially the bulbs, contain toxic alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even cardiac arrhythmias in dogs.
Sean McCormack said: ‘Traces of calcium oxalate crystals can also be found in the bulbs, which causes dermatitis in dogs.
“If you have previously had daffodils in your garden, or even in a vase in your home, it is essential that you remove any soil or water that they have touched.”
If your dog has come into contact with daffodils, the first sign of poisoning is diarrhea and vomiting; However, in extreme cases, the dog’s heart can be affected and cause long-term stomach problems.
To treat internal poisoning, induced vomiting will be the first resort, while a topical cream can be applied to any external exposure.
If your dog has inhaled daffodil pollen, a steroid may be prescribed, as well as an oxygen mask.
While daffodils add a splash of color to gardens, all parts of the plant contain toxic alkaloids that can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even cardiac arrhythmias in dogs (file image)
2. azaleas
These popular flowering shrubs contain grayanotoxins which, if ingested, can cause vomiting, breathing problems, and in extreme cases, your dog may need to be placed in an induced coma.
Sean said: ‘Some signs that your dog has ingested this type of plant include vomiting and constant dripping. Tremors and very low blood pressure are also key signs.
‘In extreme cases, this flower causes seizures, as well as gasping and even temporary loss of vision. Keep an eye out for these specific signs to ensure the right type of veterinary treatment for your dog.
To treat azalea poisoning, Sean says a veterinarian may recommend induced vomiting with hydrogen peroxide or the use of activated charcoal to remove toxins from the bloodstream.
However, if it is not known when the flower was consumed, gastric lavage, which involves putting the flower to sleep, may need to be performed.
3. Chimes
Despite their charming appearance, bellflowers contain glycosides that can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling, and, in severe cases, decreased heart rate in dogs.
Sean said: ‘Bluebells are rich in scillarens, which are known to reduce heart rate. They also contain poisonous glycosides, which would make most animals, including humans, very sick.’
If your dog has been poisoned by ingestion, some of the signs include diarrhea, vomiting, and general abdominal discomfort; However, if you ingest enough of the plant, a decreased heart rate could require urgent medical attention.
To treat bluebell poisoning, your veterinarian will most likely induce vomiting with hydrogen peroxide.
Any other method, such as salt or sticking a finger down the throat, will cause your dog more harm than good.
Despite their charming appearance, bellflowers contain glycosides that can cause gastrointestinal upset, drooling and, in severe cases, decreased heart rate in dogs (file image)
4. Meadow lily, lily of the valley, peace lily and calla lily
Several species of lilies are highly toxic to all pets, including dogs, and can cause moodiness, vomiting, anorexia, and even tumors if ingested. Even small ingestions of pollen or leaves can be harmful.
Sean said: “If you have any type of pet, it is best to avoid certain types of this flower, as the side effects of simply licking the pollen from their fur could have disastrous consequences.”
To detect lily poisoning in dogs, one of the main things to look out for is bad mood. If your dog seems depressed and generally in a bad mood, this could be the reason.
Another symptom is rapid weight loss, since these plants can cause anorexia in dogs, as well as stomach problems and, in extreme cases, tumors.
Treatment for lily poisoning depends on the type of lily in your garden and how long ago the flower was consumed; If you are unsure when the flower was ingested, your veterinarian will most likely prescribe activated charcoal to draw out the poison.
What alternative plants can I have in my spring garden?
Sunflowers are cheerful flowers that not only brighten any garden but are also non-toxic to dogs, making them a safe choice for pet owners.
If you’re lucky enough to see your sunflower stem grow, Sean recommends adding tomato food to the soil and placing a bamboo pole to support it.
With their timeless beauty and delicate fragrance, roses are a classic addition to any garden and pose no threat to dogs if ingested.
Sean recommends nourishing them with sun, regular water and pruning, and they are guaranteed to stay colorful and delicious all spring long.
Not only are snapdragons colorful, visually appealing flowers that add charm to garden landscapes, but they are also safe for dogs.
Sean adds: “These flowers need to be cut regularly, but they need to be fed only weekly, which makes them pleasantly low maintenance.”
Finally, camellias, known for their stunning flowers and glossy foliage, are also non-toxic to dogs, giving gardeners an elegant, pet-friendly option.
Sean says they don’t like too much sun exposure, so it’s best to plant them in a sunny spot in the morning but shady in the afternoon.
