Warmer weather is around the corner and I’m looking forward to long walks at Black Hills Regional Park. After the harsh winter it’s going to be a welcome relief to be outdoors in fresh air playing Frisbee or catch with my favorite dog.
As the spring colors start to appear make sure to closely monitor your dogs around the beautiful flowers. Many spring flowers are poisonous to dogs, resulting in symptoms that range from excessive drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and lethargy to even fatal consequences, depending on the flower and how much is consumed.
Here’s a list of some of the most common spring flowers that are toxic to your dog:
- Tulip
- Hyacinth
- Daffodil
- Azalea
- Crocus*
- Rhododendron
- Bittersweet
- Clematis
- Foxglove**
- Lily of the Valley
Be sure to pay attention to your dog and their bad habits, as well. Does your dog have a tendency to dig in the dirt? Be aware that the bulb part of tulips, hyacinths and daffodils are the parts that contain the most concentrated poison and are highly toxic to your dog. If you see your dog digging it is important to correct them immediately for their safety. This is just one area having your dog properly trained will pay off for you.
Plants and flowers are not the only thing to be aware of during the spring planting season. Fertilizer is something you also want to watch. Be aware of the ingredients in fertilizers before using them on your lawn or garden. Blood meal in fertilizers can cause pancreatitis, while bone meal cannot be digested at all and can cause an obstruction in the GI tract, requiring surgery to remove.
Chemical herbicides can also be poisonous to dogs and should be avoided at all costs.
If you catch your dog eating any of the above plants and/or they exhibit symptoms of poisoning get them to your veterinarian or animal hospital right away.
*Spring crocus causes gastric upset. However, autumn crocus is highly toxic and will cause liver, kidney and respiratory failure.
**Foxglove can cause a drop in heart rate and seizures.
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