Your pets are members of the family and you care deeply about their wellbeing. The last thing you ever want is for something to happen to them which could have been prevented. But what if there is a threat lurking right in your backyard or in your home?
Many people forget that certain landscape plants can be harmful to pets. Animals have a tendency to munch on plant material while hanging out in the yard, but if you install the wrong plants, it could have deadly consequences.
Jo Cosgrove, landsaper and horticulturist at trees.com shares some of the plants that could be harmful to pets.
Aloe Vera. While it is perfectly safe for humans to smear or even consume aloe pulp, it is not appropriate for a dog's system. Saponins in aloe leaves can bring on vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and general central nervous system depression.
Amaryllis and Daffodils. These flowers, if ingested, can cause intestinal spasms, low blood pressure, salivation, vomiting, diarrhea, and even cardiac arrhythmia.
Begonias. This very common home and garden plant contains needle-shaped crystals of calcium oxalate called "raphides" that can cause severe inflammation and irritation to any tissues. They can cause vomiting and excessive salivating as the body tries to purge or dilute the irritant. These symptoms should be reported to a vet immediately.
Baby's Breath. While not necessarily something you'd grow in the landscape, this plant is worth mentioning since it's so often brought into the home. The bouquet filler in every last-minute grocery store bunch will cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Sago Palm. This is a common houseplant that is adored for its tropical aesthetics. But it can cause liver failure and death in severe cases when ingested by pets. All parts are extremely toxic.
References
Getz, Lindsey. (2022, June 22). Total Landscape Care. Design Build Article. Poisonous to pets: Keep these plant choices out of your pet-owning clients’ yards. https://bit.ly/3bkLgtS
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