Is Your Yard Poisoning Your Dog?

With spring beginning it is the time to start checking what is in your yard and what your dogs have access to. Not all plants are safe for dogs and many are actually very toxic. Below are popular flowers that are toxic for your dogs and alternative non toxic flowers to plant instead.

*Do not use this article for medical advice. All the facts on toxic and non toxic plants come from the ASPCA poison control page. Also you should never allow your dog to eat any plants or flowers in your yard, just because they are non toxic doesn't necessarily mean they are good to eat. 

Popular Toxic Flowers

Hydrangea - vomiting, depression, diarrhea. Cyanide intoxication is rare - usually produces more of a gastrointestinal disturbance.

Lavender - Nausea and Vomiting

Peony - Vomiting, diarrhea, depression

Daisy - Vomiting, diarrhea, hypersalivation, incoordination, dermatitis

Tulip - vomiting, depression, diarrhea, hypersalivation, Highest concentration of toxin in the bulb.

Lily - most types are toxic. Ingestion can cause various symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and lethargy, with potential kidney failure in severe cases.

Non Toxic Flowers to plant instead

Roses - benefits of planting roses includes enhancing the aesthetic appeal of gardens with vibrant colors and fragrances, and attracting pollinators.

Sunflowers - benefits of planting sunflowers include attracting pollinators, improving soil health, providing food for birds and wildlife and harvesting sunflower seeds.

Orchid - benefits of planting orchids include improving air quality, promoting relaxation, long blooms, and adding a touch of elegance. 

Petunia - benefits of planting petunias (especially near vegetable gardens) include attracting pollinators, repelling unwanted insects, acting as living mulch to retain moisture and prevent weeds. 

Zinnias - benefits of planting zinnias include attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies, providing a long lasting and vibrant display of color, and being easy to grow and low maintenance.

Marigold - benefits of planting marigolds include attracting beneficial insects, repelling pests, improving soil health, and suppressing weeds. Many varieties are also edible.

By choosing non-toxic plants, you can create a beautiful and safe environment for you and your pets to enjoy.