Curious dogs and puppies have a knack for exploring their surroundings by sniffing, touching, and even tasting everything in sight. Whether you’re out on a walk or enjoying a camping trip, your furry companion may encounter various plants and flowers along the way. While some are harmless, others can be toxic to your beloved pet. As their caregiver, it’s crucial to ensure their safety by identifying which plants are safe and which should be avoided. In this article, we’ll delve into the world of viburnum and its potential effects on dogs.
What is Viburnum?
Viburnum, also known as the cranberry bush, is a genus of stunning flowering plants that feature both evergreen and deciduous shrubs adorned with white or pink blooms. It is a popular choice for landscaping, often used as hedges, screening, or in shrub borders. With over 150 species, viburnum comes in a variety of heights and colors. From towering plants reaching up to 20 feet to dwarf varieties standing less than 3 feet tall, there’s a viburnum for every garden. These plants showcase their beauty during spring, when they bloom with stunning clusters, cymes, terminal panicles, or corymbs of white or pink flowers. Viburnum berries, which appear in late summer or fall, come in enticing shades of red, blue, yellow, and black.
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Is Viburnum Poisonous to Dogs?
Concerned pet owners will be relieved to learn that according to the ASPCA, viburnum is generally considered non-toxic to both humans and dogs. Viburnum, also referred to as sweet viburnum or blackhaw, has not been listed as toxic by reputable botanical databases such as Toxic Plants of Texas, Poisonous Plants and Mushrooms of North Carolina, Cornell University Plants Poisonous to Livestock, and the University of Pennsylvania Poisonous Plants. This lack of inclusion in toxic plant lists suggests that viburnum is safe for pets. Otherwise, it would undoubtedly be flagged as a potential danger.
However, it’s important to note that a few species of viburnum may have mild toxicity for both humans and dogs. Viburnum opulus, for instance, produces mildly toxic fruits that could induce vomiting if ingested in large quantities. To err on the side of caution, pet owners may want to opt for other viburnum species that pose no risk to their furry friends. Luckily, there are numerous alternatives available, ensuring that you’ll have many safe options to choose from.
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Another species to be wary of is viburnum suspensum, also known as Sandakwa. This particular variety may have poisonous berries that can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested by dogs or humans. The leaves and other parts of the plant, however, are safe for your pets. If you do decide to keep this species at home, consider removing the clusters of fruits as soon as they start to bloom to prevent any unfortunate incidents.
In Conclusion
Viburnum is a captivating plant that adds beauty to any landscape or garden with its attractive foliage, fragrant flowers, and colorful berries. The vast array of viburnum varieties ensures that you’ll find the perfect fit for your outdoor space. Fortunately, the majority of viburnum species are non-toxic to dogs, making them an excellent choice for dog lovers. With just a couple of exceptions—Viburnum opulus and viburnum suspensum—you can confidently enjoy the beauty of viburnum without worrying about your pet’s well-being.
Last Updated on May 18, 2022
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Category: Snake Plant
