Expert Advice on Creating a Safe and Pet-Friendly Garden

As temperatures rise and the sun shines, many people will spend more time outdoors. This season, however, can pose risks for pets due to the presence of toxic plants. Experts are advising cat and dog owners to take safety precautions to protect their animals. The primary recommendation is to keep pets away from these harmful plants.

A simple and inexpensive trick to deter pets from nibbling on dangerous plants is to spray them with diluted lemon juice. Both cats and dogs dislike the smell and taste of citrus. This method is easy to implement and won't take up much time. Furthermore, well-diluted lemon juice can actually benefit the plants, promoting healthy growth.

Not all plants are toxic to pets. Some springtime flowers, such as tulip and daffodil bulbs, can be harmful to dogs, particularly the bulbs. Ingesting these can cause mild gastrointestinal issues, although they are usually not life-threatening. However, the bulbs of daffodils and tulips contain the highest concentration of toxins and can cause serious illness.

Certain herbs, like onions and garlic, are toxic to dogs in both cooked and plant forms. They can potentially damage a dog's red blood cells. Lavender can also be harmful if ingested in large quantities, leading to vomiting. It's advisable to grow dog-friendly herbs like rosemary, basil, or coriander instead. Pokeweed, lilies, and rhododendrons are among the most poisonous plants for dogs, and pet owners should avoid them entirely. It's important to note that pokeweed can also be dangerous to humans.

For dog owners who love plants, there are safe options. Rosemary, sunflowers, calendula, and cornflower are generally considered safe for dogs. However, it's important to remember that any plant can cause a mild stomach upset if eaten. Therefore, it's best to take steps to prevent pets from nibbling on any plants in the garden, even those considered pet-friendly.