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Are Wallflower Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Are Wallflower Plants Toxic to Dogs?

Some wallflower plants are toxic to dogs. 

Wallflower, or erysimum, is a genus of flowering plants under the family Brassicaceae. They are native to places such as Europe, southwest Asia, and Africa. There are about 150 wild and cultivated species, some of which can live for more than two years. The plant generally bears beautiful inflorescences in red, pink, yellow, or even white. 

There is no information on the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) and Pet Poison Helpline to verify the toxicity of wallflower plants. However, a few sources claim that some wallflower plant varieties contain harmful cardiac glycosides, also known as cheirotoxin or cheiranthin. The seeds are said to contain more glycoside than other parts of the erysimum.  

What to do if your dog accidentally comes into contact with, chews, or eats wallflower plants: Take the dog away from the plant, and remove any remnants of the plant on him. Put him under observation for one day, and watch for symptoms of poisoning. Digestive issues, respiratory complications, or skin irritation may occur. 

Watch for diarrhea, vomiting, drooling, pale gums, nausea, tremors, and convulsions. Agitation, unsteadiness on feet, abnormal heart rate, and difficulty in breathing may also manifest. Your dog could even experience dry skin, tiny bumps, hair loss, and redness in the affected areas.

Contact your veterinarian and report your pup’s symptoms. If his condition worsens, take your pet to the emergency clinic. Don’t forget to bring a sample of the plant to help them determine its toxins.

In summary: Some wallflower plant species contain harmful compounds that can hurt your dog. Since it’s difficult to assess if the wallflower is safe at a glance, refrain from planting it in your backyard and going near one when you’re out walking your pooch. Before bringing home a new houseplant, check these lists from PetMD, ASPCA, and Pet Poison Helpline

References:

Erysimum – Wikipedia

Erysimum – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics

How to Plant, Grow & Care for Wallflowers

Everything You Need to Know About Wallflowers (Erysimum)

Dog poisoning: Signs of poisoning in dogs and what you need to do

Skin Irritation In Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatment



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