Are Rhododendrons Poisonous to Dogs?

According to a list distributed by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals' Poison Control Center, rhododendrons are toxic to many domestic animals, including dogs. While beautiful in a garden, it is best not to allow your dog to remain unsupervised around these plants for long, as serious health problems can ensue.

  1. Amount

    • It only takes the ingestion of a small amount of rhododendron matter to cause problems for dogs. The amount ingested may have a different effect depending upon the dog's weight. All parts of the rhododendron plant are considered toxic.

    Chemical Properties

    • Rhododendrons contain a toxin called grayantoxin, which is a neurotoxin. Neurotoxins work to poison the nerve cells of the body.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms normally occur one to three hours after ingestion. They include, but are not limited to upset stomach, lack of appetite, excessive salivation, depression, weakness, ataxia, leg paralysis, weak heart rate and fatigue.

    Serious Effects

    • After the initial symptoms of toxicity present themselves, intense vomiting and diarrhea, coma, low blood pressure, cardiovascular and central nervous system shutdown and death are all possible unless treatment is sought.

    Treatment

    • If you suspect your dog has ingested rhododendron, seek emergency veterinary medical attention. Medications, as well as life support measures, may be administered to your pet.