Despite the cooler temperatures, the Winter season sees many people planning and preparing their gardens. If you are a dog owner, it is important to be aware of plants that are harmful to our canine friends, so you can steer clear of poisonous flora in your garden, or ensure your dog cannot access the plants.
The list of toxic plants is exhaustive, and this blog does not cover all types of plants that could cause harm to your dog. For more details, please check with a landscaping or gardening expert, or your local vet.
Keep in mind that different plants (and different parts of plants, such as the stems, leaves or seed) differ in their level of toxicity. Similarly, each dog may react differently to ingesting these plants and the effects may vary from vomiting to more serious illnesses (and will also depend on the volume eaten).
But don’t despair- there are lots of plants and flowers that are safe for animals too, so be sure to research species before you plan your garden for the coming Spring. If you do plant any potentially poisonous plants, be sure to keep your dog away from them, via a fence or gate.
Some veggie patch plants that are poisonous to dogs:
- Onions
- Snowpeas
- Tomato plants
- Green potatoes
Some trees that are poisonous to dogs:
- Apricot and Apple Trees: stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanide, especially in the process of wilting
- Oak Trees
- Yucca
Some bulbs that are poisonous to dogs:
- Daffodils
- Tulips
- Lily of the valley
Some annuals and perennials that are poisonous to dogs:
- Iris
- Begonias
- Foxglove
- Wisteria
- Hydrangeas
- Azaleas
If your dog becomes ill, or you suspect they have eaten a poisonous plant, call your vet immediately. It’s better to be safe than sorry!
Sources:
- http://kb.rspca.org.au/what-garden-dangers-must-i-protect-my-pet-from_314.html
- http://kb.rspca.org.au/Where-can-I-find-out-about-plants-that-might-be-poisonous-for-my-pets_23.html
- http://www.burkesbackyard.com.au/fact-sheets/pets/pets-pet-care-native-animals/poisonous-plants-for-pets-2/
- https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants
- http://www.betterpetsandgardens.com.au/pet-care/dogs/health-and-first-aid/toxic-plants-for-pets/