Pets

Ask the vet... with Lynn Broom

Are there any plants that I may have in my garden that are poisonous to pets ? Many plants have the potential to be toxic to our pets. Some which are edible for us can be poisonous to animals and puppies are especially prone to the risks of eating dangerous items because of their exploring nature. n Alliums include onions, leeks, chives and garlic. They cause irritation of the mouth and gastrointestinal symptoms and, in severe cases, can cause red blood cells to rupture which can be fatal. All forms of these plants can be toxic including fresh, cooked and powdered products. n Grapes can be toxic. Recently the cause of this toxicity has been identified and is due to the presence of tartaric acid which is very toxic to dogs. This only develops in certain circumstances so that unaffected grapes do not appear to be poisonous and affected grapes are highly toxic even in small numbers. n Daffodil, tulip, hyacinth, crocus and iris bulbs are toxic. Most parts of the plant are poisonous but the bulbs are particularly so. Symptoms include vomiting and diarrhoea and in severe cases dehydration, lethargy and severe abdominal pain. Daffodils are the most toxic and eating them can even cause seizures. n Fertiliser can be toxic if eaten, causing vomiting and diarrhoea. Compost heaps grow various types of fungi some of which are extremely dangerous if eaten. Fungi can produce mycotoxins which are potentially fatal. Some mushrooms and toadstools cause gastric upsets and can cause hallucinations. Bird food dropped on the ground can go mouldy and is also at risk of causing severe symptoms. n Cocoa mulch contains theobromine which is the same toxic compound present in chocolate. Many weed killers, insecticides, slug pellets and lawn feeds/moss killers are toxic and contact with them should be avoided until the instructions state that it is safe for animals to be allowed back in contact with treated areas. n Conkers and acorns are toxic if chewed. The stones from cherries, plums and peaches can also be toxic if chewed because they contain small amounts of cyanide. Whole conkers or peach stones can cause intestinal obstructions with life threatening consequences. Corn on the cob are common causes of gut obstructions particularly following outdoor barbecues so be sure to dispose of them carefully. n Many shrubs can be poisonous or irritant and any symptoms developing after parts of a plant have been chewed should be checked out with your vet. n Lilies are extremely toxic to cats. Ingestion of even very small amounts of any part of the plant, either directly or after grooming pollen off their fur, can lead to kidney failure, seizures and death. Many plants are poisonous to cats. Luckily cats are more discerning about what they eat than dogs, although indoor cats are at a higher risk of chewing house plants and you should choose plants carefully if you have a cat. n Our gardens have the potential to be dangerous for our pets but if we are careful with areas of concern and particularly monitor what puppies and kittens have access to, we can limit these risks dramatically.

COCKER SPANIEL PUPPIES, 4 boys available. Very well bred, father is FTCH, available from 28th May 21. Call for more information 07503 905659

Companions at Peace Pet Cremation

Independent family run business offering a very personal, caring pet cremation service to bereaved pet owners. Collection Service Farewell Room Out of Hours Service provided Located in a rural countryside setting on the Somerset Dorset border

KC GOLDEN COCKER SPANIEL PUPPIES : 1 dog 1 Bitch 7 1/2 weeks Outstanding temperaments, well socialised, both parents working. Microchipped, vac. dew clawed, flead ,wormed, vet checked. Ready for good homes 1st June Mum can be seen with puppies 07789 633323 POA

SPRINGER SPANIEL X MINI POODLE PUPS. DNA CLEAR & Kc reg parents. Microchipped,vaccinated and vet checked. READY NOW. 07707 646359

FOX RED LABRADOR PUPPIES FOR SALE. Both parents are KC registered and working. Puppies will be wormed, microchipped, and KC registered. £2,500. 07773254174 SILKIE COCKEREL, free to good home. Also, growers for sale. 01963 363476 LOST AND FOUND AND REHOMING

Blandford & Sturminster Newton Cats Protection: 01258 858644

Monty (14) blue grey boy looking for a home in the country. No cats or dogs. Lost cats: Shaftesbury – black boy with blue collar missing since 7/5. Old Farm Garden Blandford – brindle tortie girl missing since 2/5. Blandford St Mary – recently shaved fluffy tabby cat may still have a bandage on his front leg missing since 29/4 . Shaftesbury – dark grey & white boy missing since 14/4 Found Cats: Station Road Gillingham - Calico tortie (we think) n We are still offering neutering and micro-chipping for £5 in postcode areas DT10, DT11, SP5, SP7, BH21 and now also in SP8 call 01258 268695 Tel 01258 858644

BEAUTIFUL Teddy Bear poochons. 4 boys. Mum + dad can be seen both in my home. health/DNA tested.

DOG SITTER (with room at home) required for 2 easy dogs, a spaniel and jack Russell. Needed on an ongoing basis for ad hoc nights either mid-week or weekends. Shaftesbury area, please call 01258 471839/07742419491

DACHSHUND MINIATURE smooth puppies. 2 black boys ready 4th June. 07989 815960

MALE GUINEA PIGS, all colours, rough and smooth coated, 12 weeks to 1 year old. £10 each. 01963 458199