Spring flowers that are dangerous to your pet

At this time of year there are various blooms and plants that are popular because of their beautiful colours and fragrances.

Some spring flowers can be poisonous to pets and should be avoided or limited around the home. Here is a list of common plant species to be cautions with.

Daffodils

Daffodils are poisonous to dogs if they eat the flowers or bulbs, or if they drink water from a vase with daffodils inside. The bulbs are the most poisonous part as this is where the toxins are most concentrated. If eaten by your pooch they can cause an upset stomach and even vomiting, some dogs may also appear sleepy and wobbly. To avoid any issues don’t let your pet dig in the garden, or plant pet friendly plants including geranium, lavender and snapdragon.

Azaleas

Although they may add a pop of colour to your spring garden, it’s best to leave azaleas out of the mix. These plants can be toxic to dogs if ingested and cause mild problems such as vomiting, diarrhoea and weakness. Keeping these out of reach of curious paws may be sufficient to protect your canine companion.

Bluebells

Bluebells are poisonous to dogs because they contain a toxin that affects the heart. Bluebell poisoning will normally result in an upset tummy but if eaten in very large amounts can be fatal. Bluebells are often found in woodland areas so remember to keep an eye on your dog during walks to make sure they do not eat anything they shouldn’t.

Tulips

Tulips contain a toxin which can irritate a dog’s mouth and gastrointestinal tract resulting in drooling, vomiting and diarrhoea. If you’re planning on growing these outside in spring ensure they are placed well away from any curious pets.

Hyacinths

Hyacinth plants are toxic to dogs when consumed causing vomiting, diarrhoea and drooling. If a dog eats a large amount of the plant bulb or flowers they may experience changes in heart rate and respiration and you should seek veterinary attention.

Calla lily

Most lilies are toxic to dogs if consumed. If your pet consumes a lily plant it may cause gastrointestinal upset including vomiting and diarrhoea and abdominal pain. If your dog has got its paws on a lily and seems unwell it is important to contact your vet right away.

Crocus

Spring crocus is non-toxic but ingestion may cause mild symptoms of gastrointestinal upset in dogs. Care must be taken to distinguish spring crocus from the autumn crocus which is very poisonous.

Amaryllis

Amaryllis are brightly coloured plants that naturally bloom during spring. They can be found both indoors and outdoors but all parts of the plant are poisonous to dogs and should always be kept out of reach.

Buttercups

The plants contain the chemical ranunculin which when crushed or chewed becomes a bitter tasting toxin. This can cause blisters in the mouth and irritate the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract, poisonous to horses, cats and dogs.

 

Foxglove

These beautiful flowers attract honeybees to your garden yet are highly toxic for both people and dogs. If eaten, foxgloves can cause your dog to suffer severe nausea and vomiting as well as seizures and abnormal heart rhythms which can be fatal.

Elderberry

Whilst the ripe fruit of the elderberry can be nutrient rich, in springtime the leaves, stems and roots are poisonous to dogs as they contain small amounts of cyanide. This can cause digestive upset and even lead to seizures and sudden death.

 

If you think your dog has been poisoned, contact your vet immediately. Your vet might need some details to ensure speedy treatment so try and record what you think they might have eaten, when they ate or drank it, how much might they have ingested and what symptoms have they been showing.

Don’t wait for symptoms to appear, the sooner your dog is treated, the better their chance of recovery.