+49 9571 9400 117 info@pet-interiors.com

Which plants are poisonous to dogs

puppy with lily of the valley - pet.interiors

Puppies explore their environment with their mouths and are particularly prone to chewing a plant that is poisonous to them.

Many dog owners are not aware of how many plants in our immediate vicinity are poisonous to dogs. A large number of plants in our living space, in the garden and in the wild pose a medium to high risk of poisoning for our pets. The health risk can be very high, especially for puppies who explore their environment with their mouths and teeth. With our article we will inform you about plants that are poisonous to dogs, the most common symptoms of poisoning and emergency measures in the event of plant poisoning.

 

How can dogs ingest poisonous plants?

  • the dog chews up a poisonous plant (flowers, stem and/or root) and absorbs the poison through the oral mucosa
  • the dog swallows poisonous plant parts
  • the dog has skin contact with the plant poison, e.g. the contact poison of the meadow hogweed, aconite
  • the dog inhales poisonous pollen, which is rare

 

Information for puppy owners

When a puppy moves in, all plants must be scrutinised. Due to their curiosity and tendency to explore new things with their mouths, all houseplants within reach of the young dog must be checked for their safety. Please do not take any risks and remove all plants that are poisonous to dogs from your living area.

You can find out how to stop your puppy from chewing on objects here.

 

Plants poisonous to dogs

We have compiled a list of plants that are poisonous to dogs. The list includes house and garden plants that are poisonous to your four-legged friend. We cannot guarantee that the list is complete. In particular, new varieties are constantly coming onto the market that may be poisonous to your pet. If you are unsure whether a plant is poisonous to dogs or not, it is better to remove it and not take any risks.

Download list of poisonous plants

 

A note on mushrooms

The effect of mushrooms on dogs has not yet been sufficiently researched and is therefore generally not permitted for dogs. What is considered digestible for humans is not necessarily true for dogs. This is shown by the example of chocolate. The active ingredient theobromine contained in chocolate can cause severe poisoning in dogs. As a precaution, remove all mushrooms from your garden.

 

The dog has poisoned itself

If you see your dog chewing on a poisonous plant, take it away immediately. Offer him a better alternative, a treat, sausage or, if necessary, a steak to swap the “prey”. Telephone your vet immediately to discuss whether you can take emergency measures, such as giving him charcoal tablets. Take the remaining plant parts with you to the vet. They will help you to identify the poison and the countermeasures to be taken immediately.

 

Symptoms of plant poisoning

  • Apathy shortness of breath
  • Severe and/or bloody diarrhoea
  • Blood in the urine
  • vomiting with or without blood
  • profuse salivation
  • cramps
  • tremors
  • coordination problems, staggering, falling down
  • Pale or blue discoloured oral mucosa
  • Palpitations, cardiac arrhythmia, increased heart rate
  • Shock symptoms
  • Fainting

 

Transport to the veterinarian

Contact the vet first. Make sure that the practice is open. If your dog is able to walk itself, you should leave it alone. If the effects of the toxins weaken the dog’s circulation and cause the body temperature to drop, keep the animal warm with a blanket. If your dog has convulsions, you must transport it in such a way that it cannot injure itself. If you have no means of transport to the vet and the dog is in danger of dying, call the fire brigade (emergency number 112) and ask for help.

 

Important information for the vet

The vet needs to know which poisonous plant your dog has ingested. Bring a sample of the poisonous plant with you, if available. It is also important to know when the plant was ingested. What symptoms and behavioural abnormalities does your dog show and how much of the poisonous plant did your dog ingest?

 

Switzerland, Zurich: Tox Info Suiss
Poison control centre: +41 44 25 15 151
Telephone: +41 44 25 16 666
E-mail: Info [AT] toxi [DOT] ch
Web: toxinfo.ch

Dog biscuits with apple and chia

When you make homemade cookies for your dog, you always know exactly what is in them. You can respond very well to your pet’s needs, for example allergies, and pay attention to organic quality. Today I came up with a fruity, fresh recipe for a treat. The dog biscuits with apple and chia will delight your four-legged friend and with these healthy ingredients, your four-legged friend will also get a good portion of omega 3 fatty acids.

Dogs are always particularly happy about dog biscuits with chia and apple because they are healthy and taste delicious.

Ingredients for the dog biscuits with apple and chia:

  • 50 g fine oat flakes
    The three main food sources for dogs are protein in plant and animal form, fat and carbohydrates. Oat flakes contain vegetable protein, a high number of unsaturated fatty acids and lots of fiber and carbohydrates. Oatmeal is an excellent source for your four-legged friend, especially when energy is needed quickly. In addition to vitamins and minerals, oatmeal also contains mucilage that has a calming effect on the intestinal wall. The fine flakes are easier to digest than the coarse flakes and should also soak for some time before eating.
  • 200 g of cottage cheese
    Cottage cheese is a high-quality source of protein with high levels of vitamin D, magnesium and calcium. It is easy to digest and the muscles are continuously supplied with all essential amino acids. Also with serotonin, which is responsible for well-being. The lactic acid bacteria contained nourish and regenerate the dog’s intestinal flora. It has been scientifically proven that cottage cheese neutralizes tooth decay bacteria.
  • 2 organic eggs
    Like humans, dogs benefit from the healthy nutrients in eggs. It contains enough essential fats and amino acids for a good metabolism. They are also rich in many vitamins and good proteins. The fatty acids ensure a great shine in the fur of your four-legged friend. The cholesterol and lecithin contained in the yolk support cell formation. Since the eggs in our biscuit are sufficiently heated, no salmonella is transmitted.
  • 50g chia
    Chia seeds are not only healthy for humans, but also for our four-legged friends. The dog biscuits with apple and chia contain antioxidants, proteins, fiber, vitamins and minerals that have a positive effect on the four-legged friend’s immune system and metabolism. It is important that the chia seeds soak for at least two hours before processing.
  • 2 apples
    “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away” also applies to dogs. The apple is a healthy and nutrient-rich addition to the daily food ration. The secondary plant substances, vitamins and pectin it contains have a positive effect on health.

 

Preparation of the dog biscuits with apple and chia:

  1. Remove the core of the apples and then grate them finely. I leave the bowls on, but everyone can do it however they want.
  2. Then knead all the ingredients into a dough.
    Wait at least 2 hours until the chia has swollen properly.
  3. Then use a teaspoon to scoop out small piles and place them on a baking tray lined with baking paper.
  4. Bake at 175°C for approx. 20 minutes

Important: The dog biscuits with chia and apple must dry particularly well. Be sure to store it in an air-permeable container or bag.

Use these few healthy ingredients to bake your dog’s favorite cookies.

Receipt dog biscuit

Dog driving licence – The licence to go for a walk?

The owner shows that he has his dog under control at all times.

Dogs are rarely naturally aggressive. If cases of aggression occur, it is usually due to incorrect posture, violent upbringing or a misinterpretation of behavior.

Whenever a biting accident is reported in the press, calls for a dog license become louder. What is forgotten is that dogs are very rarely naturally aggressive. In many cases the reason is due to incorrect attitude and violent, aggressive upbringing. A misinterpretation of the four-legged friend’s behavior can also be the cause. What does a dog license do and what should you pay attention to?

 

What exactly is the dog license?

With a dog license, the dog owner acquires a certificate. An exam with a theoretical and practical part must be taken. The theoretical part consists of questions about species-appropriate husbandry, legal regulations and the appropriate handling of a dog. In the practical test, the dog and owner must pass typical everyday situations. For example, lying quietly under the table in the cafe even though the waiter or other guests come to the table. The dog should also be able to tolerate unusual movement patterns (e.g. children on scooters) when walking without a leash.

 

 

Where can the test be taken?

Associations such as the International Professional Association of Dog Trainers (IBH), the Association for the German Dog Industry (VDH) or the BHV (Professional Association of Dog Trainers and Behavior Consultants) take the dog driving license test. The costs are around €100.

 

Proof of expertise is mandatory in Lower Saxony.

Since July 2013, proof of expertise has been mandatory in Lower Saxony for anyone who buys a new dog. This proof is colloquially known as a dog license. However, not all authorities recognize all certificates of expertise. It is therefore advisable to seek advice from the relevant authorities.

 

 

What regulations apply in the other federal states?

There are no uniform rules across Germany, only requirements for binding proof for all dog owners. In Bavaria you only need a permit to keep so-called fighting dogs. Which dogs fall under this term can be found in the fighting dog regulations. In Berlin, stricter rules apply to all dogs if you want to let them off the leash.

 

What are the advantages of a dog license?

On the one hand, you gain an understanding of how well you have your dog under control. On the other hand, having a driving license offers financial incentives: There are municipalities that offer an exemption from dog tax after receiving a dog driving license. In other communities, the dog tax is at least reduced upon presentation of the dog license.

 

 

What does the dog owner have to master during the test?

The requirements vary slightly from state to state. The examinations of the various associations are also different. Approximately 35 – 40 questions must be answered on the topics of training, fear, aggression, upbringing, reproduction, health, attitude, communication, care, race and relevant law. To pass, the owner must answer at least 80% of the questions correctly.

 

What does the owner have to be able to do practically?

The dog driving license test is about the animal’s suitability for everyday use. Numerous situations are played out. The owner of the animal must have the dog under control so that it does not jump up on passers-by. He must also have his dog under control so that he can let him walk in public without a leash.

 

 

Protect the dog from ticks

Spring is coming, the sun is warming us. We look forward to long walks and long walks with our dogs. And so the tick plague begins again. If you want to protect yourself and your four-legged friend from ticks, you can use relatively safe and environmentally friendly methods. There are wonderful herbal products that can help. You don’t always have to shoot sparrows with cannons. However, if you live in an area with a heavy tick infestation, you may have to resort to a spot-on. The best place to discuss this is with your veterinarian.

Schwarz-weiße Katze betreibt gründliche Fellpflege

We introduce you to healthy alternatives to fend off ticks.

Why many products that protect against ticks are so dangerous for your animal.

There are a variety of spot-ons and tablets on the market that use chemical ingredients to protect against ticks. It contains chemicals such as permethrin, pyroproxifen, methoprene, fipronil or imidacloprid. Tablets contain, among other things, flurolaner. These active ingredients have caused serious health problems in the animals in the experimental laboratories. The inactive ingredients it contains can also harm your dog. Some of these toxins are fatal to cats. If your family includes a dog and a cat, you should think about less toxic options and do your research.

Many package inserts warn not to let the substances come into contact with your own skin when applying them. It is recommended to wash your hands thoroughly after use and to keep the products away from children. But in order to protect the dog from ticks, the product must be applied to the animal’s skin. An overdose of pesticides can cause dogs to experience vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, convulsions and breathing problems. If any of these symptoms occur, wash the product thoroughly and seek veterinary attention immediately.

 

A strong immune system is a good start.

Well-fed, healthy dogs with a strong immune system attract fewer parasites. This is what experience shows. And just like with us humans, the key to good health is diet. Find out more about the ingredients in the food. Dog food usually consists of leftovers from the meat industry that are no longer suitable for human consumption. In Germany, only hygienically perfect by-products may be used to produce the feed. But since the rotten meat scandals, we know what can get into our food and that of our pets.

It’s best to think intensively about the topic of nutrition for your dog. This is the only way you can be sure that you are doing everything you can to ensure the health of your four-legged friend.

 

.

Protect against ticks with the power of nature.

B vitamin tablets are a good prevention against tick infestation. Adding coconut oil (please organic quality) to the feed also helps. This is not necessarily scientifically proven, but it has been tested in practice. Coconut oil is rich in oleic and linoleic acid, vitamins E and K, iron and organic sulfur. The lauric, capric and caprylic acids contained strengthen the immune system and have antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral effects.

There are also spot-ons with purely herbal extracts that protect against ticks. These botanicals are not liked by ticks and are applied to the animal’s neck. You can also apply herbal lotions based on coconut and neem oil. These care for the fur and last for 2-3 hours.

You can also make your own effective repellent against parasites. You can fill the mixture into a spray bottle and spray your dog with it before every walk.

Mix 5 drops each of tea tree, citronella, rosemary, peppermint and eucalyptus oils with a cup of water. Shake the mixture well and pour it into a spray bottle. You can spray your dog with this tincture daily. It will protect him from ticks.

 

Download – Recipe for a natural tick repellent for dogs.

Caution:

Under no circumstances should you use the spray on cats. Essential oils can be fatal to cats. Cats cannot metabolize essential oils and only excrete them slowly. They accumulate in the body and have a toxic effect. Just a few drops can cause a cat to become ill.

Heatstroke in Dogs

Temperatures that are comfortable for us can, under certain circumstances, lead to heat stroke for the dog.

Heat stroke in dogs

If temperatures rise to over 25°C in summer, dogs are more likely to suffer from heatstroke. Since there are no sweat glands on large parts of the skin in dogs and cats, the animals are very sensitive to heat. Sweat glands are only located on the nose and the ball of the nose. This is too small a surface area to regulate body temperature sufficiently. And unlike humans, the warm fur can be exchanged for an airy summer dress.

 

How does heatstroke occur in dogs?

If the dog is exposed to heat for a long time and has no opportunity to retreat to a cool place, the dog can very quickly develop heat stroke. If you park your car in the sun at a pleasant 24°C, it can become a fatal trap for your dog inside within an hour. Never leave your dog alone in the car, even if it is in the shade. The sun moves and the car turns into an oven within a very short time.

In warm weather, high humidity, and strenuous physical activity, well-trained dogs can suffer heat stroke. Rescue dogs may only be used for 15 minutes at temperatures above 30°C. Then a sufficiently long break must be taken and the animal must have unrestricted access to water. To ensure that the rescue dog is adequately protected, the body temperature is checked regularly.

If your dog is a flat-nosed dog (e.g. French Bulldog, Pug, Boxer, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pekingese…) you should be particularly careful. Even a quiet walk in the midday heat can cause heat stroke in a dog with restricted breathing.

What happens when you have heat stroke?

Dogs dissipate heat by panting. Due to the resulting loss of fluid, the animals become dehydrated and their body temperature continues to rise. From a body temperature of 40°C, the organs are no longer adequately supplied with blood, significant circulatory problems occur and shock can occur. If the body temperature continues to rise, the body’s own protein clots, the animal collapses and, after a painful struggle, dies of heart failure.

 

These are the signs of heat stroke:

  • heavy panting and shallow breathing
  • great restlessness, the dog is looking for a place in the shade
  • rapid pulse and heart palpitations
  • Body temperature over 40°C
  • deep red tongue and glassy gaze
  • Inside of ears are hot and red
  • the animal is exhausted, restless and convulsing
  • Vomiting and diarrhea
  • Balance disorders and staggering
  • Apathy and, in the worst case, unconsciousness

First aid measures for heat stroke:

  • move the animal to a cool, well-ventilated place
  • offer the animal measured water (never force it)
  • place the dog on a damp towel and cool his head and neck
  • slowly moisten the legs
  • shower the animal slowly and carefully, starting with the legs
  • Do not under any circumstances pour water on the animal, risk of shock!
  • under no circumstances use ice-cold water, danger to life!
  • If the dog is unconscious, place him on his right side, stretching his head and neck to prevent suffocation

take the animal to the vet immediately
If you have a heat-damaged dog, you should always and under all circumstances consult a veterinarian! Only a veterinarian has the chance to prevent irreparable damage and initiate emergency measures.

Here are some useful tips on how to get your dog through the summer heat!

 

 

Why is my cat unclean?

Why is my cat unclean?

Is your cat messy and no longer using the litter tray? This behaviour can have various causes and in this article we give you useful tips. The first port of call should definitely be the vet, …