With longer days and warmer temperatures on the horizon, many dog owners will be eagerly awaiting the days when they can spend hours outdoors with their four-legged friends.
Searches for “plants toxic to dogs” have spiked by 138% in the UK over the last three months, indicating a clear concern from owners around the potential seasonal dangers that arise in spring and summer. Lisa Hannaby-Aird, pet nutritionist at natural dog food brand Forthglade, has shared information on some of the most common plants that can pose a serious risk to dogs, with advice on what to do if owners suspect their pups have come into contact with one.
Lisa said: “Spring and summer are the seasons where dogs are most at risk of ingesting something harmful, as the longer days and higher temperatures lead them to naturally become more active and explorative. Several dangerous plants don’t appear particularly menacing on first glance, so owners need to know what to look out for.”
Lisa said daffodils are among the most widely planted spring bulbs in the UK, making them among the most common sources of accidental ingestion.
The entire plant is toxic, including the bulb, and can cause severe vomiting, abdominal pain and potential heart issues if ingested, so owners with dogs who like to dig are advised to exercise extreme caution around spring blooms.
Tulips are another widely grown flower that poses a significant risk as they contain toxic compounds in the stems, leaves and most crucially the bulbs.
Symptoms from tulip ingestion include vomiting, excessive drooling, and mouth irritation. In more severe cases, ingestion can lead to an increased heart rate and difficulty breathing.
Foxglove is one of the most serious plant hazards for dogs over the spring and summer seasons. Every part of the plant is toxic and even a small amount can affect the heart if ingested – leading to an irregular heartbeat, weakness and even collapse.
Foxglove is a very popular garden plant because of its dramatic, colourful appearance – so it’s one to be particularly cautious of.
Lisa said that if you think your dog has eaten or come into contact with a toxic plant, note down a description or name of the plant and estimate how much they may have ingested or touched before contacting your vet.
She said: “It is always better to check with your vet than wait for symptoms to show.”
