Dogs, much like their owners, find great joy in spending time in the garden. However, gardens can pose several risks to animals, many of which may go unnoticed by pet owners. This week, we’re focusing on raising awareness of common garden hazards in Ireland, to help you keep your dogs safe throughout the summer.

Toxic Plants

Pets, particularly dogs, are known for their curious nature and tendency to chew on anything within their reach. Unfortunately, this can sometimes include toxic plants. It’s advisable to regularly check your garden for any potentially harmful vegetation. Modern technology, like plant identification apps, makes this task easier than ever.

Some common plants found in gardens that are toxic to pets include chrysanthemums, daffodil bulbs, Larkspur, foxgloves, hydrangea, acorns, tomato plants, wisteria, and yew. While many pets live alongside these plants without issue, it’s crucial to understand your garden and your pet’s behaviour. For instance, dogs that are prone to chewing plants could be at risk if they get hold of any of these toxic varieties.

Rather than removing every single plant, the best approach is to monitor your pet closely and discourage them from chewing on these plants.

Cats, on the other hand, are generally more selective and less likely to chew on plants. However, certain plants, like lilies, are highly toxic to them. Cats can be poisoned simply by brushing against a lily, picking up pollen on their fur, and then ingesting it while grooming. This can lead to severe kidney failure. To prevent this, it’s safest to keep lilies entirely out of your garden if you have cats.

What to Do If Your Pet Ingests a Toxic Plant

If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic plant, it’s vital to contact your vet immediately. The quickest way to counteract poison ingestion is for the vet to administer an injection that induces vomiting, expelling the toxin before it can be absorbed. This treatment is most effective if administered within an hour of ingestion. If more than an hour has passed, consult your vet, who may advise monitoring your pet for signs of poisoning, such as vomiting, diarrhoea, or skin and mouth irritations, depending on the plant involved and the amount ingested.

Preventative Measures

Some pet owners prefer to take a preventative approach by removing all potentially harmful plants from their gardens. These can be replaced with “animal-friendly” plants that are safe and still add beauty to the garden. Examples include lavender, rosemary, calendula, dill, and fennel. These plants are not only safe for animals but also add vibrant colours and pleasant fragrances to your garden, allowing you to create a lovely and safe environment for your pets.