Poisonous Plants for Dogs and Safe Alternatives.
As pet owners, it’s our responsibility to keep our dogs healthy and provide them with a safe environment to live. Many of us like to have indoor or outdoor plants, I especially love them for their zen vibe, but what if they are harmful to our fur babies?
When I was purchasing plants for my garden I had to think about what would be safe for my own dogs.
Alarmingly there are some common poisonous plants for dogs found in many of our homes and gardens that could be harmful if eaten or exposed to the skin. The size of the dog and the amount consumed can differ in toxicity from mild to severe, or in some cases will cause death. Symptoms can include vomiting, diarrhoea, breathing difficulty, changes in urine, salivation, and weakness.
Here are some common plants that are poisonous to dogs
1. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is probably one of the most common household plants as maintenance is low. Externally, aloe can benefit a dog. Aloe can be an anti-inflammatory, promote healing and alleviate allergic reactions. However, aloe latex (the yellow sappy part under the rind) contains a natural chemical called aloin which can irritate the intestines and cause electrolyte loss.
2. Elephant Ear
Elephant ears belong to the Araceae family. The plants are filled with insoluble calcium oxalate crystals. If the plant is chewed on by your pup, or bitten into, crystals will release and irritate the mouth and gastrointestinal tract. In rare cases, the upper airway will become swollen make breathing extremely difficult.
4. Iris
Iris is a common plant used in household gardens. They’re not likely to cause death but irritation can occur just from touching or eating these plants. Most of the compounds that cause irritation are the most potent in the bulb of the plant.
4. Karaka tree berries
Watch out for the orange Karaka berries during the summer as they can be fatal if eaten by dogs.
The kernels in the fruit contain the alkaloid karakin, which is very toxic if ingested by your dog. Symptoms of Karaka berry poisoning include convulsions, vomiting, confusion and weakness, and may not be displayed immediately after consumption. The berry kernels remain toxic for a long period of time so old fruit can still be a potential threat to your dog.
5. Poinsettias
Poinsettias are a popular plant with their lush red leaves. But these plants have a bad reputation with our dogs. If your dog eats them, poinsettias give generally mild signs of illness. When exposed to the skin, the milky sap of this plant can cause irritation, swelling, and itchiness.
6. Tomatoes
Yes, tomatoes! Many of us like to grow our own plants, herbs, and vegetables which usually includes tomatoes. Yum! To be clear the tomatoes are not toxic but the green, leafy vines that the tomatoes grow on are. They contain a property called solanine which is present in many other plants from the Solanaceae family. Severe poisoning could occur if they ingest a large amount however, a small amount may still cause gastrointestinal issues.
Other plants to watch out for in New Zealand include; Black nightshade, Wandering Jew, Onions and garlic, Rhubarb, Ivy, Daffodils, Baby’s Breath, Bird of Paradise, Barley Grass seeds and New Zealand tree nettle.
This is not an exhaustive list so make sure to do your research before bringing new flora and fauna into the home. If you suspect your dog may have come in contact with a poisonous plant take them immediately to a vet.
4 Dog Friendly Plants for the Home.
Just as there are many poisonous plants for dogs, there are a few alternatives that are completely safe! Here are a few good ones that look just as beautiful and won’t cause any harm to your beloved pet.
1. Purple Basil
Not only is it pretty to look at but this plant is completely harmless to your dog. In fact, this plant may help alleviate arthritic symptoms if your dog happens to eat them!
2. African Daisy
This flower is part of the sunflower/daisy family (Asteraceae). If you enjoy flowers in your garden and around your house, the African daisy is a safe alternative. These flowers are bright and yellow in colour and are no threat to your dog if she decides to eat them for a snack.
3. Canna Lily
This is another low maintenance plant which is very easy to grow. They offer perennial colour without potentially threatening your dog’s health. However, pay attention when you’re shopping for lilies as there are MANY types of lilies that are highly toxic to dogs and cats.
4. Spider Plant
One great thing about the spider plant is it’s safe for ALL PETS. We all know dogs love to eat things, whether they’re harmful or not. The spider plant is no exception to this rule.
Dogs tend to be very fond of the taste of these plants and are likely to chew or eat them. However, this is a better alternative because of their non-toxicity.
Do Your Research!
If you happen to have one of these poisonous plants in your house, it’s best to re-home it.
When you visit your local plant nursery, keep in mind that certain plants are toxic to your pets. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff if the ones you’re looking at will be safe for your dog or run a quick Google search from your phone. When it comes to plants that may be toxic, it’s better to be prepared and safe for the sake of our furry children.