Summer weather is finally here and, with the nicer weather, we find ourselves out and about with our senior pets more frequently. This got me thinking about one of my senior fur babies and one of her favorite “walk time” activities…tasting random plants along our walk route. I don’t remember when she started doing this, but I have noticed that she seems to have a strong interest in odd looking weeds and flowers. She will gently lean in and nibble a flower bud or tender green leaf, as if she were Bambi’s cousin and needed a snack or five along the way. She takes just one little bite and then moves on. I know some of you might be thinking she has an upset tummy and is looking for a way to move something out of her stomach. However, I can assure you she has grass eating to regurgitate down to a science. However, this plant tasting is something else entirely.
I say all this to bring up a topic not always discussed or maybe not even thought of by those of us with senior pets, plants that dogs are allergic to. I don’t believe my plant eater is allergic to any plants in our area, but I do know that many others are and that contact with certain plants will cause an unwanted allergic reaction.
In this post we are going to explore several plants easily within reach of most dog breeds that they are allergic to. Hopefully you will recognize one or two of these plants where you are located, and it will help you and your senior pet avoid any allergic reactions.
After browsing this post, check out our article on 10 blooms for your senior dog to safely enjoy! You'll be able to safely plant these flowers in your garden and not have to worry a bit if your senior dog takes a bite!
Castor Bean
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
This plant can be found in many parts of the country. Locations include Arizona, California, Illinois, Kansas, Massachusetts, Michigan, Missouri, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Texas, Tennessee and Utah. Can also be found in parts of the South, the Southeast and east coast states from Louisiana to Virginia.
How does this affect my pet?
This plant is highly poisonous and, when encountered, your pet should be nowhere near it. The beans are toxic and your pet will probably exhibit poisoning symptoms if eaten. Additionally, physical contact with the seeds and leaves can cause a rash.
Day Lilies
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
Day lilies are found throughout the U.S.
How does this affect my pet?
When physically contacted by your pet, day lilies may cause a rash or itching. Dogs should avoid eating this plant as it may cause severe vomiting.
Primrose
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
This plant is native throughout the U.S., with the exception of Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, Utah and Wyoming.
How does this affect my pet?
Certain varieties of primrose contain a toxin that can cause vomiting and diarrhea. Interestingly evening primrose oil is actually really good for your dog’s skin.Juniper Shrubs
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
The US has multiple varieties that are native to the U.S. and many grow in western U.S. However, certain varieties are seen throughout almost all U.S. states.
How does this affect my pet?
Male juniper shrubs release a great deal of pollen throughout the year and dogs with allergy issues related to pollen are most susceptible. Dogs may develop symptoms of sneezing and runny nose symptoms similar to human allergic reactions. They may also develop respiratory symptoms as well. Juniper pollen can also cause allergic reactions on the skin including bumps and rash.Oleander
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
Oleander tends to grow in warmer climates. Thought it can be hardy in cooler areas, Oleander cannot withstand sustained freezes and regularly cool climates. Typically, Oleander is found in the south, southwest and southeast parts of the U.S.
How does this affect my pet?
Oleander is extraordinarily beautiful and extremely toxic. The shrub is deadly to both humans and their pets and should be treated with caution. It should probably be said that, due to the toxicity of this shrub, pets suffer symptoms of poisoning rather than allergic reactions when interacting with it. Symptoms related to touching or ingesting oleander include vomiting, lethargy, diarrhea and loss of coordination. Symptoms such as these, in addition to many others, generally appear within 30 minutes of contact. Always be aware of where you pet is located in areas where this shrub grows wild.
Philodendron
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
Philodendrons grow in the tropical and coastal South. Most types of philodendron are found in humid forest areas.
How does this affect my pet?
Philodendrons contain a substance that, when chewed or ingested, causes extreme discomfort and irritation at the point where the plant touches your pet. Swelling of mouth and throat can occur and a very painful stinging pain will also be present. These reactions almost always occur when your fur baby tries to eat the plant. Negative reactions your pet has to eating this plant will appear almost immediately. Common symptoms are similar to those related to the oleander shrub and also include foaming at the mouth, difficulty breathing and swelling in and around the mouth.
Sago Palm
Where is this usually found in the U.S.?
Sago palms are essentially tropical plants that grow best in tropical and subtropical climates such as Georgia, Florida, California and Puerto Rico.
How does this affect my pet?
As with several other plants on our list, the sago palm is extraordinarily toxic and care should be taken in areas where your pet could be exposed. Symptoms related to your pet eating this plant will be due to its toxic nature and are far more serious than rash or itchy skin. These symptoms are similar to your pet eating other toxic plants but also include additional signs such as blood in feces and increased thirst. Be mindful of your surroundings if you and your fur baby plan to visit an area where sago palms are present.
What Can You Do??
Except for the most toxic plants, the easiest way to minimize or eliminate an allergic reaction your pet might be in the middle of involving a rash or skin irritation is a good old-fashioned bath. Even better, add oatmeal (yes, the kind you eat for breakfast) to a bath and allow your pet to soak for 20-30 minutes. This has done wonders for our senior dogs over the years and I highly recommend you give it a try! While you're bathing your dog, I also recommend Dr. Teal's Pure Epsom Salt products. They have naturally eliminated hot spots and skin rash from our seniors for many years. They also smell amazing!
Now, comment below and let us know what kinds of plants your fur baby has had experience with. What did you do to stop the allergic reaction? Any special treatments you would like to share that worked? Let us know! We would love to hear your thoughts and ideas!