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5 Poisonous Plants To Be Careful Of At Christmas

December 22, 2022

Christmas is such an exciting time, with all sorts of fun traditions that we bring into the home every year. Some traditions though, can be dangerous to your pups.

Here is our list of plants to be careful of during the holiday period

1.Pine Needles

There is nothing nicer than the sweet smell of a freshly cut Christmas tree, but be mindful that the needles can be harmful if they are swallowed by your pup. They can puncture the intestines and damage the stomach lining and the oils can also irritate your pup’s mucous membranes. Cleaning up any fallen needles and not allowing your pup to eat any will ensure everyone has a happy and healthy holiday!

2. Poinsettia

Poinsettia is a very pretty red leafed plant that we often have in our homes during the festivities. The plant is only midly toxic, but if combined with other toxins or an elderly or already sick dog there is potential that this could overload their systems so it’s something to be mindful of if you do decide to have this pretty plant in your home.

3. Mistletoe

Mistletoe is one of the great traditions of Christmas but the leaves can be toxic to dogs if eaten. Symptoms can include vomiting and diarrhea and if you think that you dogs has eaten any part of the plant, you should see vet advice

4. Holly

Holly berries may be attractive to your pooch, but the leaves, bark and seeds are poisonous to dogs. The effects are similar to caffeine and chocolate.

5. Amaryllis

Amaryllis or Belladonna is a little less common for Christmas but is often used to decorate the home during the holidays.

The bulbof the plant is the most toxic part, but ingestion of any part of the plan can cause lethargy, tremors, vomiting and diarrhea.

If you suspect that your dog has eaten something that they shouldn’t, or you think that they may have been poisoned, you should seek vet assistance