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Hazards at the Bottom of the Garden
Author : Petcare Information and Advisory Service Australia (www.petnet.com.au)
Keen gardeners are often on the watch for damage their dog may do to their carefully nurtured plants, but few would be on the watch for the damage the plants may do to the dog.
Most people are aware that the beautiful oleander seen in so many public gardens and suburban backyards is a deadly poison - so much so that the simple stirring a cup of tea with a twig while on a picnic claimed a human life. Oleander is also poisonous to dogs but few dogs would be inclined to chew the plant. However young puppies are more likely to do so, or to play with fallen twigs, leaves and flowers.
Many of the beautiful plants which are common in Australian gardens can have fatal results if ingested by a dog.
The bulbs of Daffodils, Jonquils, Tulips, Spider Lilies, Nerines, and Crocus are all poisonous. Bulbs often prove an attractive toy for puppies and or adult dogs, particularly those who love to play with a ball.
Burning Bush, Castor Oil Plant, Daphne, Foxglove, Golden Chain, Ivy, Larkspur, Lily of the Valley, Mock Orange, Monkshood, Mountain Laurel, Rhododendron and Sweet Peas are among others which are poisonous.
Indoor plants are also best placed out of reach of the dog and cat as Dumb Cane, Elephant Ears, and Cyclamens may be chewed by the bored pup with dire results.
If the dog or cat eats a plant which you suspect may be poisonous contact your local verterinarian immediately. If you are unsure of the qualities or the identity of the plant your local nursery will be able to assist.
Gardeners must also take care to keep poisonous chemicals, such as insecticides and fertilisers, away from pets. Pets are best restricted from sprayed areas of the garden, including lawns which have been chemically fertilised.
There are some common garden plants and grasses which may cause an allergic reaction in dogs Wandering Jew is a common cause of dogs with itchy feet and lower legs and stomach rashes - as is paspalam and rye grass. Keeping the lawns mown to prevent seeding, or restricting the dogs to mown areas, will help prevent a reaction to grasses.
Every spring, veterinarians expect an influx of canine patients suffering from snail bait poisoning. Pet owners should consider using non toxic methods of snail control or placing baits where they are sure their pets, and those of their neighbours, cannot reach them.
Many rural or semi rural areas may be participating in a rabbit eradication program involving the laying of poison carrots. While these are probably not attractive to dogs and cats the carcase of poisoned rabbits may be. If it is known that the dog or cat has eaten the stomach contents of a poisoned rabbit seek veterinary advice immediately.
© Copyright Karen 2010, Last Updated 6 May 2012.