IT’S that time of year when many of us are getting out in the garden and green fingered once again.
Finally, despite it still being chilly the the days start getting lighter, longer and Spring has officially sprung.
However, despite most of us loving the chance to soak up some sun in the garden or out and about for our furry-friends, it can be a dangerous time of year, as there's various spring flowers can be detrimental to a dog's health.
We’ve spoken to Pet Expert and Founder of Yappy.com, John Smith, to find out the spring flowers you should avoid to keep your pups happy and healthy as they bounce through the spring sunshine.
Speaking to Fabulous John said: “We all love to see the start of spring, however for our dogs it can be a dangerous time.
"It’s important we are aware of what’s growing in our surroundings in order to keep our pups safe from becoming unwell! If your pup does become unwell you must speak to your local vet and seek medical assistance!"
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Here's the pretty plants that can actually pack a poisonous punch for your pooch…
Tulips
John says: “Tulips are a sure sign of spring, but these beautiful blooms are highly toxic to our four-legged friends, and their bulbs are particularly poisonous too.”
Tulips are in fact so dangerous they rank in the top three most dangerous garden plants for dogs.
John said: “Be sure your dog doesn’t chomp on any tulips or drink their flowerpot water either as this can lead to vomiting, drooling and diarrhoea.”
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Daffodils
Daffodils, though joyful, also rank in the top three most dangerous plants for dogs. Your dog should avoid every part of the plant from the bulb to the water.
John says: “These yellow flowers may look cheerful, but daffodils are poisonous to dogs if they eat the bulbs, flowers, or drink the water from a vase that’s had daffodils inside.”
“It’s important that your dog is unable to dig up daffodils, as the bulbs are where the toxins are concentrated, making them the most poisonous part of the plant.”
“Symptoms of daffodil poisoning can include vomiting, upset stomach, sleepiness and your dog being wobbly on their feet. There is a chance your dog may also have seizures, so it’s definitely one to steer clear of.”
Crocuses
Crocuses are another very dangerous plant for dogs and with two different types there is even more to watch out for.
John says: “There are two types of crocuses, one which blooms in autumn and the other which blooms in spring.”
“Both are toxic, however if the spring crocus is consumed it can result in symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhoea.”
Bluebells
As bluebells grow close to the ground, it’s important to watch your dog closely on your next woodland walk.
John explains all parts of a Bluebell are dangerous dogs and it can leave them disoriented and tired.
John says: “All parts of the Bluebell are poisonous to dogs if ingested, and will lead to sickness, diarrhoea, lethargic and sometimes they can become disorientated.”
Snowdrops
These delicate, bell-shaped flowers may look sweet, but they can cause a lot of damage to your dog if either the flower or the bulb are consumed.
John says: “Symptoms of Snowdrop poisoning can include vomiting and diarrhoea.”
And that's not all John reckons there are few other plants you should probably avoid in your garden if you're a dog owner.
He says: “Other spring flowers to look out for are Lily of the Valley, Hyacinths, and Azaleas.”
“These are also detrimental to our pups' health and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain, and in some cases can even affect your dog’s heart rate and respiration.”
How to create a dog-friendly garden
But it’s not all doom and gloom. There are plenty of pets that are safe for dogs and loads of ways to make your garden stimulating for your pooches.
Firstly consider creating dedicated dog areas and securing your garden plots so your dog can’t dig up your plants or urinate on your lawns.
Remember a stronger well rooted plant it less likely to be dug up by your furry little friend.
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Also create different routes throughout the garden like clearly defined paths and designated play and digging areas.
Consider laying different surface textures as they can stimulate your pups paws, plants like Salix and ornamental grasses move and sway providing entertainment for your pooch.
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