Dogs Trust Shoreham, based in West Sussex, warns that early signs of spring bring serious risks from flowers such as daffodils and tulips, which can be dangerous for dogs.
It can be a particularly dangerous time for those dogs that enjoy digging in the garden.
Toxic plants
Senior veterinary surgeon Charlie Dobson says other toxic plants include snowdrops, rhododendrons, amaryllis, azaleas, and bluebells. Symptoms of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling, lethargy, tremors, and, in severe cases, seizures or difficulty breathing.
Buttercups, crocuses, primrose, cyclamen, elderberry, foxglove, hyacinth bulbs, and lupin leaves and seeds are also potentially poisonous.
“In some cases, spring bulb poisoning can prove fatal,” Ms Dobson said. “Knowing which plants are dangerous and keeping them out of reach can help prevent accidental poisoning”.
Safe gardens for dogs
The charity advises dog owners to create safe gardens, plant herbs for dogs to sniff, provide shaded spots, and offer activities like paddling pools.
If your pet does ingest a toxic plant, get veterinary advice immediately, even if symptoms are not yet visible.
