A number of decorative and garden plants are poisonous to dogs and puppies. Usually, your canine friend will steer away, but boredom and curiosity might lead to an accidental nibble, which can cause a myriad of complications and symptoms. These symptoms can range from mild to severe. In this article, we have listed some of the poisonous plants that you might want to keep away from your furry friend. They are:

Azalea
Azalea is a flowering shrub that is often grown for its ornamental properties. However, its leaves, stems, and flowers have a potent neurotoxin known as grayanotoxin. This toxin can disrupt the ability of the cells and prevent them from functioning normally. If accidentally ingested, it can interfere with skeletal and nerve functions. It also interferes with the action of the heart muscle. Signs such as abnormal heart rhythm, tremors, and low blood pressure are indicative of azalea poisoning, which can lead to serious health issues. If your pet has accidentally ingested any part of this plant, contact the vet immediately.

Hyacinth
Hyacinth, although a gorgeous addition to your garden, is highly poisonous to your pets. The entire hyacinth plant is poisonous and irritant in nature, but the bulbs hold the highest quantity of toxicity called calcium oxalate crystals. These crystals form microscopic needles. When ingested, they can pierce the soft skin inside the mouth and the lining of the intestinal organs. Hyacinth consumption leads to instantaneous pain, which typically prevents dogs from eating a substantial amount. Whether symptomatic or not, if you have any suspicion that your dog has come in contact with this plant or it has the habit of biting everything, you should immediately contact a vet as a precautionary measure.

Castor
The castor plant belongs to the Euphorbiaceae family. Its active ingredient is ricin, one of the most potent plant-based toxins in the world. The seeds are highly concentrated. Since this plant is used as a decorative one, pets can easily get to it. If your pet exhibits symptoms like excessive thirst, vomiting, and diarrhea, contact the vet immediately. Severe cases could result in seizures and even death. It is vital to remember that these symptoms may begin between 6-42 hours of ingestion.

English Ivy
Hedera Helix or English Ivy contains sapogenin polyacetylene compounds which are natural irritants. These compounds are highly concentrated in plant leaves. If chewed or swallowed, they can irritate the skin and mucus membranes. Although not fatal, a vet consultation will save your canine friend from distress due to its poison. Symptoms that could occur are rashes, vomiting, gastrointestinal distress, and diarrhea.

Elephant ear
Alocasia or elephant ear contains a toxic ingredient called calcium oxalate acid. This toxin forms crystals that can penetrate the tissues of your dog’s skin and mouth. Some of the signs of alocasia poisoning are constant pawing at their face and mouth area, vomiting, constant foaming, and drooling. Often there will be swelling in the mouth, tongue, and upper respiratory tract, which can lead to breathing trouble and difficulty swallowing. Elephant ear poisoning can prove to be fatal quickly, so immediate medical help is necessary. Your pet can also get injured from the thorns of this plant.

Daffodils
Daffodil poisoning is caused by the accidental ingestion of flowers, stems, and leaves. The presence of lycorine can trigger gastrointestinal and cardiac issues. The bulbs and flowers also contain calcium oxalates which can cause irritation and intense pain in the oral cavity and throat. Skin exposure also causes symptoms, such as burning, rash, itching, and inflammation.

Apart from poisonous plants, outdoor spaces such as yards and gardens are sources of ticks and fleas that can irritate your pets. These parasites can suck your pet’s blood and spread disease. So, to prevent an infestation, try the following medicines:

Bravecto
It is a systemic insecticide and acaricide that can be used for the treatment of tick and flea infestations in dogs for up to three months. Its dose can vary from 12.5 mg for small puppies to 1400bvm for old dogs. However, consult a vet before giving this medicine.

Simparica
It is another chewable medicine that kills different types of ticks. It works for over a month to kill the ticks, fleas, and mites.

Advantix
Parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and lice, can cause skin reactions and dermatitis, leading to bacterial infections. Advantix is a topical treatment for these problems in dogs.

Besides that, heartworms can also affect a dog’s health. These worms get their name because they live in the heart and other major organs connected via the blood vessels. Heartworm infection can lead to lung disease, cardiac failure, organ damage, and even death in pets. Dirofilaria immitis, the worm that causes heartworm disease, is spread by a mosquito bite. Hence, regular trips to the vet might help to detect heartworm and other health issues in pets.