The plants that adorn our homes and gardens are beautiful to look at but can often become dangerous to your four-legged friends. Plants like aloe vera, lilies and even the tomato plant can all prove poisonous for your pets. The ASPCA has recently uncovered a new culprit in the garden, one that has been affecting a growing number of pets across the country.
Brunfelsia, also called "morning, noon and night" or "yesterday, today and tomorrow", is a favorite among many gardeners. The plants petite pansy-like blooms open purple, then turns pale lavender, and then finally white. These color changing flowers are popular and will often flourish year-round when kept in pots. They also thrive in warmer climates such as California and Florida.
But its the plants seeds and berries that have already proven disastrous to many pets, especially dogs. According to a recent study published by Dr. Safdar Khan, veterinary toxicologist for the ASPCAs Animal Poison Control Center, dogs are particular susceptible to brunsfelsia poisoning. According to Khan, in five years the center treated 38 cases of brunfelsia poisoning involving 42 dogs, mostly in California. Of these cases, three dogs died.
Although these numbers may seem low, they are only from one veterinary center. Cases in other year-long warm climates such as Florida have already been reported.
Some larger and more curious dogs are coming out as the most affected. "The most commonly affected breeds are Labrador and golden retrievers," said Dr. Steven Hansen, veterinary toxicologist and director of the ASPCA Poison Control Center. "Uncommonly lively and active, these dogs can be more likely to get into the plants seeds and leaves."
According to Khan the symptoms of brunfelsia poisoning are numerous and often devastating for both pet and owner. "If pets consume any part of the plant, they can become ill within hours," said Khan. "Brunfelsia toxicity can progress very rapidly to a potentially lethal situation, so its critical that pet parents seek immediate veterinary care."
Symptoms of brunfelsia poisoning are gastrointestinal problems such as vomiting and diarrhea, tremors, seizures and muscle rigidity that makes the animal appear to be in a "sawhorse" stance. One hound dog in California experienced stiff limbs and excessive drooling after ingesting several seeds from the plant.
Yet another case in Florida involved a terrier puppy. After ingesting part of the plant, the puppy developed life-threatening seizures. Thanks to both the ASPCA poison control center and local veterinarians, the puppy made a full recovery.
"The veterinarian administered medication to treat the seizures," said Hansen. "And were happy to report that the pup is happy and healthy today as result of his owners immediate action."
Although brunfelsia potentially can be dangerous for your pets, other common plants are too. Whether you have the plant or not at home or in your garden, if your pet displays any symptoms like that of brunfelsia toxicity take them to the vet immediately. This could be the result of ingestion of the scores of other plants that are poisonous for pets.
If you suspect that your pet has ingested a toxic substance either contact your vet as soon as possible or the ASPCA Poison Control Center which is available 24 hours a day, and 365 days a year.
Check out the ASPCA Poison Control website today and request a free poison control kit that includes a magnet and decal with all relevant poison control information for quick reference.
To read about other common plants that are hazardous to your pets read our other article called "Toxic Plants for your Furry Friend."
