Is Carthamus Tinctorius Safe for Dogs to Lick?

Americans own about 78 million pet dogs, according to the Humane Society of the United States. If you've got a pooch, you most likely consider him a member of your family and want to make sure your companion stays safe. There are many plants that can pose dangers to your pet. Carthamus Tinctorius, though not toxic, is one of them.

  1. About

    • Carthamus tinctorius is the Latin or scientific name for safflower, according to James A. Duke's Handbook of Energy Crops (available on the website of Purdue University). This is a commercial plant, grown for the oil produced by its seeds. It grows in the United States in all areas suitable for the cultivation of wheat.

    Identification and Location

    • In the United States, you're most likely to encounter Carthamus tinctorius if you're walking your dog near cultivated fields, as the plant is a widespread agricultural crop grown to make safflower oil. However, because it thrives in hot climates with little moisture, it is possible to find the plant growing wild if you live in that kind of climate. The plant grows to a height of about 4 1/2 feet, has a thick stem and a shrub-like appearance; the leaves and the stem have spines.

    Safety

    • If you see Carthamus tinctorius, keep your dog away from it. Though this plant is not on the ASPCA's list of plants toxic to dogs and is in fact used as animal feed, it can still harm your dog if your dog is allowed to lick it. Like all plants with spines, the spines on Carthamus tinctorius could hurt your dog's tongue, nose or eyes. Also, Carthamus tinctorius can act as a laxative in large quantities, so it could give your dog digestive problems.

    When to See a Vet

    • If you suspect your dog may have come into contact with Carthamus tinctorius, bring her to a veterinarian right away. Bacteria on the plant can cause infection of the spines to pierce your dog's skin and if your dog gets diarrhea from eating the plant, your pet could suffer from dehydration. Dr Martha Dean, a veterinarian working in Laporte, Colorado recommends you always see a vet if your dog is vomiting, can't get outside to have a bowel movement, refuses to eat or seems listless or tired. These can all indicate a serious problem.