Owners warned to keep dogs away from spring plants

As spring approaches, a charity is urging owners to be aware certain spring plants and bulbs can be toxic and in same cases fatal to dogs.

West Sussex-based charity, Dogs Trust Shoreham, says early signs of spring are already present in parts of the county.

Charlie Dobson says flowers such as daffodils and tulips "can be problematic for dogs, especially those who love to dig in the garden".

The charity says snowdrops, rhododendrons, amaryllis, azaleas, and bluebells are toxic to dogs.

It says common signs of poisoning may include vomiting, diarrhoea, excessive drooling, lethargy, and, in severe cases, difficulty breathing, tremors, and even seizures.

Buttercups, crocuses, primrose, cyclamen, elderberry, foxglove leaves and seeds, hyacinth bulbs, and lupin leaves and seeds can also be poisonous to dogs.

"In some cases, spring bulb poisoning can prove fatal," Ms Dobson said.

"Although cases of poisoning are rare, knowing which plants are dangerous and keeping them out of reach can help prevent accidental poisoning."

The charity says if owners suspect their pet has ingested these plants or spring bulbs, they must seek vet advice promptly, even if they are not showing any symptoms.

The charity advises dog owners to make their gardens safe, to "encourage natural canine behaviours such as sniffing, foraging and exploring".

This includes planting a variety of herbs at different heights and positions for dogs to find and sniff, create activities such as paddling pools to help them stay cool, designate a quiet spot with shade, and exercising them.

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