Written by Mara Brown, Master Dog Behaviorist
Dogs love to get into things. They are forever curious and sometimes this can get them into trouble. In spring, much of what your dog enjoys is yucky, but some things are dangerous. The ASPCA Poison Control Center lists plants as the 5th most toxic item for pets. Toxic plants can give your dog anything from diarrhea to liver damage and even lead to death. And many of the most poisonous plants for dogs are commonly found in our homes and gardens.
Here is a list of the top five common poisonous plants for dogs:
- Sago Palm: The sago palm looks like a tiny palm tree and is very popular here in the desert. But it is toxic to all pets. Symptoms include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, liver failure and even potential death.
- Tulips: Tulips are beautiful, colorful flowers that many people have in their homes and gardens. If your dog chews on the leaves that could lead to an upset stomach, but worse is if your dog digs up and eats newly planted bulbs which can lead to stomach problems, depression and loss of appetite.
- Lily of the Valley: Lilies of the valley are very popular. They
- have a beautiful scent and are very pretty. However, even a small exposure to this plant can cause vomiting, low blood pressure, disorientation, seizures, heart problems, and even coma for dogs.
- Oleander: Oleander is a common landscaping plant here in the desert, that flowers in pink, white, red and yellow. Every part of this plant is poisonous to dogs. Symptoms of exposure to this plant in dogs are diarrhea, stomach problems, drooling, heart problems and even possible death.
- Azaleas: Azaleas are very popular garden flowers. All parts of these plants are harmful for your dog. Most commonly, dogs get an upset stomach from ingestion of these plants, but if they eat a lot of them, they can get very weak, have tremors, low blood pressure, and heart problems.
- Enjoy spring and its many beautiful blossoming colors, but be aware of the dangers around you. Knowledge can save you heartache. Keep your dogs healthy and happy this spring and avoid their exposure to these toxic plants.
Wishing you and your furry family members a very happy and healthy spring! Visit www.LifeCoachingForDogs.com for more info or call Mara Brown at 310 467-2334.
