Dogs are like family members, so it goes without saying that health issues are always a cause for concern. This is especially true when a dog suffers something as serious as a seizure. In some cases, conditions that cause canine seizures cannot be helped. What few people realize is that, in some cases, unexplained sickness and seizures in dogs can be caused by toxins in the home and yard. One of the most common causes of accidental poisoning is the ingestion of dangerous plants and trees. Knowing which species are harmful to pets is the best way to prevent disaster before it occurs.
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Houseplants
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If a dog is primarily an indoor pet, special care should be taken when selecting decorative plants for the home. One of the most common causes of poisoning in dogs is the ingestion of houseplants. These common houseplants are among many that have been proven toxic to dogs and can cause seizures:
- Caladium (all parts toxic)
- Castor Bean (all parts toxic; seeds especially toxic)
- Hyacinth (toxic bulbs)
- Lantana (leaves and berries toxic)
- Mistletoe
- Rosary Pea (all parts toxic; seeds especially toxic)
When choosing plants for the home, it is important to check their labels carefully. If there are any doubts about a plant that is currently in the home, it should be moved out of the dog's reach or removed completely. Plant foods and chemical treatments should also be kept out of the reach of pets.
Flower and Garden
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People are painfully aware that animals can be hazardous to gardens, but in some cases it can be the other way around. Dogs should be kept away from gardens that contain a variety of plants and/or flowers, including the following:
- Atropa belladonna (all parts toxic)
- Bird-of-paradise (pods and fruit toxic)
- Daffodil (bulbs toxic)
- Foxglove (leaves toxic)
- Iris (leaves and roots toxic)
- Lily of the Valley (leaves and flowers toxic)
- Narcissus (bulbs toxic)
- Potatoes (shoots and sprouts toxic)
- Rhubarb (leaves toxic)
If you have an established garden, the best course of action is to keep any areas containing poisonous plants well guarded against furry companions. For those who are planning to start a new garden, it is easiest to do a bit of research beforehand to find out what plants, flowers and vegetables will be safe for your dog.
Trees
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The natural abundance of trees will certainly make avoidance a bit tougher than house or garden plants. However, knowing how to identify poisonous trees will be a huge help. Armed with knowledge, dog owners will know where their friends can and can't walk, as well as which trees should be removed from the landscape. The following trees are commonly known to contain seizure-causing toxins for dogs:
- Wild cherries (twigs and leaves especially toxic; contain a compound that releases cyanide)
- Oak (foliage and acorns toxic; effects accumulate gradually)
- Black locust (bark and shoots toxic)
- Buckeye (sprouts, nuts and seeds toxic)
- Elderberry (leaves, bark and roots toxic)
- Yew (bark, leaves and seeds toxic)
Careful consideration should be used during landscaping projects involving ornamental trees. Consult literature or call a veterinarian if any doubts are had about a certain tree and its effect on animals.
Warning
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When it comes to pets, it is always best to err on the side of caution. If your dog ingests a houseplant or flower, keep an eye on his behavior, even if the plant is not considered to be toxic.
Warning
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Take special care when purchasing houseplants, decorative trees and garden flowers. There may be times when the labels do not clearly indicate whether the plants are considered hazardous to household pets and small children. When in doubt, ask a store clerk for assistance or move on to a different plant altogether.
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