April Showers Bring May Flowers

Spring is in swing!  This is always a festive time of year, no matter where you live.  Temperatures are climbing, days are getting longer, and all across the country, flowers are beginning to rise from their winter’s rest and bloom for us all to enjoy. We humans always try to remind ourselves to “stop and smell the roses” – our four legged companions, however, need no reminder. For dogs, there is nothing more interesting than partaking of all that spring has to offer.  Every colorful bloom is one that is worthy of diligent inspection!

With Mother's Day just around the corner, there will be all sorts of beautiful bouquets showing up in homes.  To keep our dogs safe during this season, be aware of plants and flowers that are not “dog friendly”.   Some plants can be mild irritants, while others can be poisonous and even deadly if ingested.  Common poisonous plants that are blooming this time of year - and are popular in many arrangements put together for moms - include lilies, tulips, azaleas, amaryllis, daffodils and chrysanthemums. Some common houseplants – like many species of ivy and pothos – can be potentially harmful as well.

Your dog will not recognize which plants are toxic and which are not; it is up to us to be careful about what botanicals are within their reach!  Your local veterinarian will have information about what native plants are potentially dangerous in your area.  There are also great resources - such as this one from the ASPCA - that provide comprehensive information about dangerous plants and flowers:

List of Dangerous Plants and Flowers

The ASPCA maintains a 24-hour hotline for poisoning emergencies – that number is 888-426-4435.  Keep that number handy should you ever need!

Spring is a wonderful time of year, for all of us to venture out and enjoy the outdoors.  Knowing which plants to avoid will ensure you and your pets can safely enjoy all the beauty nature has to offer!