This Common Garden Plant Could Be Poisoning Your Pets—Here's What You Need to Know

Photo byLucius HunteronUnsplash

Gardening with your pet is a great way to spend the Summer or Fall. My dog Lance loves to join me outside as I plant some mint or (fail) to grow onions.

But one common plant found in many gardens can actually be fatal to pets.

One common culprit? Azaleas. These stunning flowering shrubs are found in gardens across the country, known for their vibrant pink, purple, and red blossoms. But despite their beauty, azaleas are toxic to cats, dogs, and even horses, according to the ASPCA.

How Do Azaleas Harm Pets?

Azaleas belong to the Rhododendron family, which contains grayanotoxins, compounds that can interfere with an animal’s heart and nervous system.

Even consuming a small amount of the plant—leaves, flowers, or stems—can cause serious health issues for pets, the American College of Veterinary Pharmacists says.

Symptoms of azalea poisoning in pets include:

• Vomiting or diarrhea
• Excessive drooling
• Weakness or lethargy
• Abnormal heart rate or low blood pressure
• Seizures or tremors

In severe cases, azalea poisoning can lead to coma or even death if not treated promptly.

What Should You Do If You Suspect Your Pet Has Eaten Azaleas?

If you suspect your pet has nibbled on an azalea, time is of the essence. Here’s what you should do:

1. Remove the pet from the area and prevent further ingestion.
2. Call your vet immediately or reach out to a pet poison control center, such as the ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control at (888) 426-4435.
3. Follow the vet’s instructions, which may involve bringing your pet in for emergency treatment.

How Can You Keep Your Pets Safe?

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping your pets safe from toxic plants. Here are a few ways to ensure your garden is a pet-friendly haven, based on guidance from Penn State.

• Identify toxic plants: Make a list of the plants in your garden and cross-reference them with lists of plants toxic to pets. In addition to azaleas, plants like lilies, tulips, and sago palms are also dangerous.
• Choose pet-safe alternatives: Opt for pet-friendly plants such as marigolds, snapdragons, or sunflowers. There are many beautiful and safe options that won’t pose a risk to your furry friends.
• Create barriers: If you must have azaleas or other toxic plants in your garden, consider placing them in areas that are inaccessible to your pets, such as raised beds or hanging baskets.
• Supervise your pets outdoors: Always keep a close eye on your pets when they’re roaming the garden, especially if you’re unsure of what plants they may encounter.

Conclusion

Dogs and cats love to join you outdoors! But even stunning garden plants can prove deadly.

Stay mindful of your plant choices, and remember, a little bit of knowledge can go a long way in preventing accidents and keeping your furry friends safe.