Plants that are poisonous to dogs

Dogs are naturally curious creatures, often sniffing and tasting plants in their environment. However, many common plants, some of which are popular in South African gardens, can be toxic to dogs. This article will help you identify these plants and understand the risks they pose to your Sidekick.

Recognizing Signs of Poisoning

• Gastrointestinal Distress: Diarrhea, vomiting, drooling.
• Nervous System Effects: Tremors, seizures, disorientation.
• Organ Damage: Symptoms of liver or kidney failure, such as jaundice or increased thirst.
• Cardiovascular Issues: Irregular heartbeat, hypotension.

Preventing Plant Poisoning in Dogs

• Familiarize Yourself: Learn to identify common toxic plants in your area.
• Dog-Proof Your Garden: Remove or fence off poisonous plants from areas accessible to pets.
• Supervise Your Dog: Always watch your dog when they are in a new environment.
• Educate Your Family: Make sure all family members know which plants are dangerous.
• Supervision: Keep an eye on your dog while outdoors.
• Engagement: Provide toys and activities to distract your dog from plants.
• Emergency Plan: Know the contact details of your nearest veterinarian in case of accidental ingestion.

What to Do If Your Dog Ingests a Poisonous Plant

• Information Ready: Have a list of plants in your home and garden for quick reference.
• Contact Your Vet: Provide as much information as possible about the plant and the amount ingested.
• Do Not Induce Vomiting Unless Instructed: This can sometimes cause more harm.

Common Poisonous Plants in South Africa

Cycads

• Description: Ancient plants with a stout and woody trunk.
• Toxicity: Stems and seeds are highly toxic.
• Symptoms: Loss of appetite, gastrointestinal distress, liver damage, possible death.

Delicious Monster (Monstera deliciosa)

• Description: Tropical plant known for its large, perforated leaves.
• Toxicity: Contains calcium oxalate crystals.
• Symptoms: Inflamed mouth and tongue, drooling, vomiting, difficulty swallowing.

Cannabis sativa (Marijuana)

• Description: A flowering plant with recognizable serrated leaves.
• Toxicity: All parts of the plant are toxic.
• Symptoms: Depression, lack of coordination, drooling, vomiting, incontinence, coma.

Lilies (Various Species)

• Description: Popular garden plants with large, fragrant flowers.
• Toxicity: All parts are toxic, especially to cats.
• Symptoms: Kidney failure, gastrointestinal upset, depression, tremors.

Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow (Brunfelsia)

• Description: Shrub known for flowers that change color over several days.
• Toxicity: All parts are toxic.
• Symptoms: Drooling, mouth and nose irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, seizures.

Syringa Berry Tree (Melia azedarach)

• Description: Tree known for its fragrant lilac flowers and yellow berries.
• Toxicity: Berries are very poisonous.
• Symptoms: Tremors, restlessness, gastrointestinal issues, possibly fatal in severe cases.

Oleander (Nerium oleander)

• Description: A popular ornamental shrub with attractive flowers.
• Toxicity: All parts are poisonous.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, heart abnormalities, death.

Azalea (Rhododendron spp)

• Description: Shrubs with brightly colored, blooming flowers.
• Toxicity: Entire plant is toxic.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, cardiovascular collapse, death.

Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta)

• Description: A popular ornamental plant with a crown of shiny, arching leaves.
• Toxicity: Seeds are most toxic.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, liver failure, death.

Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)

• Description: Succulent with thick, fleshy, oval-shaped leaves.
• Toxicity: Entire plant is toxic.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, lethargy, depression, irregular heart rhythm.

Autumn Crocus (Colchicum autumnale)

• Description: Blooms in autumn with purple or pink flowers.
• Toxicity: All parts, especially the bulbs.
• Symptoms: Oral irritation, bloody vomiting, diarrhea, shock, multi-organ damage, bone marrow suppression.

Castor Bean (Ricinus communis)

• Description: Known for its large, lobed leaves and spiky seed pods.
• Toxicity: Seeds contain the highest concentration of ricin.
• Symptoms: Severe abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness, loss of appetite, and potentially seizures or coma.

Daffodils (Narcissus spp.)

• Description: Spring-blooming bulbs with trumpet-shaped flowers.
• Toxicity: Bulbs contain the highest concentration of toxins.
• Symptoms: Vomiting, salivation, diarrhea; large ingestions cause convulsions, low blood pressure, tremors, and cardiac arrhythmias.

Foxglove (Digitalis purpurea)

• Description: Tall spikes of tubular flowers.
• Toxicity: Leaves, seeds, and flowers.
• Symptoms: Cardiac failure, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias.

As a dog owner in South Africa, it's crucial to be aware of the plants that can pose a danger to your pets. By taking preventative measures and being prepared for emergencies, you can ensure the safety and well-being of your dog. Regularly inspect your garden and home for these plants, and always keep a watchful eye on your pets' interactions with their environment. Remember, when in doubt, consult with your veterinarian.