One of the most common questions we get at Olive Tree Gardens is what plants are toxic to dogs. The bad news is, there are many. The good news is, dogs often instinctively know which plants to avoid and if not, usually the worst that happens is a poorly tummy and they will soon learn. However, some are more serious than others and are well worth being aware of. Below are some common toxic plants.
Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea): All parts of the foxglove plant are highly toxic, especially the flowers and leaves. Ingesting even a small amount can lead to serious heart problems and other symptoms.
Bluebells (Hyacinthoides species): Bluebell bulbs contain harmful compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and even more severe symptoms if ingested in larger amounts.
Laburnum (Laburnum anagyroides): All parts of the laburnum plant, including the seeds, are toxic. Ingestion can lead to vomiting, lethargy, and even seizures.
Yew (Taxus baccata): The entire yew plant, except for the red fleshy arils around the seeds, is highly toxic. Ingestion can quickly lead to severe symptoms and can be fatal.
Rhododendron and Azalea (Rhododendron species): These plants contain toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, and even heart problems if ingested.
Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis): Ingesting any part of the lily of the valley plant can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, and heart issues in dogs.
Hemlock (Conium maculatum): Hemlock is extremely toxic, and ingestion can lead to paralysis, tremors, and even death.
Daffodil (Narcissus species): Daffodil bulbs contain toxic compounds that can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and other digestive issues.
Wisteria (Wisteria species): The seeds and pods of wisteria contain toxic compounds that can lead to digestive problems and other symptoms.
Ivy (Hedera species): Ingesting ivy can cause stomach upset and other digestive issues.
Oleander (Nerium oleander): Although less common in the UK, oleander is highly toxic. Ingestion can lead to severe heart problems and other symptoms.
Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale): Ingesting the bulbs or flowers of the autumn crocus can cause gastrointestinal issues, kidney and liver damage, and even death.
Common English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus). This contain compounds called cyanogenic glycosides. These compounds can release cyanide when the plant is chewed or consumed. Ingesting laurel leaves, seeds, or other plant parts can lead to symptoms such as drooling, vomiting, diarrhoea, and even more severe effects like difficulty breathing, seizures, and, in extreme cases, death.
If you suspect that your dog has ingested any part of a toxic plant, it's essential to contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately. They can provide guidance on appropriate actions to take based on the specific plant and the symptoms your dog is experiencing. It's also a good idea to familiarize yourself with the plants that grow in your area to ensure your dog's safety during walks or outdoor play.
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