Dog owners have been urged to keep their eyes peeled for a potentially harmful plant when out on walks this summer.
Giant hogweed is a highly invasive plant which can be found in many grassy or overgrown areas like parks or even gardens, although it is most commonly found near watercourses and in damp meadows. Chemicals in the plant's sap can cause the skin to become over-sensitive to sunlight, which may lead to blistering, burning and long-lasting scars, according to the RHS - meaning it poses a serious health risk to both humans and animals.
The toxic sap can be found in the plant's stems, leaves, flowers and roots, therefore anyone who accidentally touches it could be at risk, while it has the potential to cause even more damage to any pet who licks or chews it. Giant hogweed blooms in June and July, meaning that dogs and their owners are most likely to come into contact with it over the next few weeks, WalesOnline reports.
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Giant hogweed has a tall, thick stem with purple blotches and large, jagged leaves, as well as umbrella-shaped clusters of white flowers on top. Not to be confused with smaller, much less harmful species - such as common hogweed or cow parsley - the toxic plant can reach heights of between 1.5m to 5m, according to the Woodland Trust.
The PDSA warns that owners should contact a vet "immediately" if they believe their pet has come into contact with giant hogweed. And experts at Kennel Store have explained the risk that giant hogweed can pose to dogs, urging owners to familiarise themselves with symptoms of poisoning as well as issuing advice on what to do if you see the plant in your area.
A spokesperson advised: "Dogs are naturally curious animals and are likely to interact with the plant, however, this can cause serious sores and blisters, and if ingested, will induce vomiting and diarrhoea. Dog owners need to recognise the plant in order to keep their pet far from it on walks."
Here are the symptoms of giant hogweed poisoning in dogs to look out for:
- Sensitive, red skin
- Blisters and ulcers
- Swelling
- Rashes and itching
- Excessive licking or scratching
- Eye irritation
- Vomiting (if ingested)
- Diarrhoea (if ingested)
- Mouth ulcers (if ingested)
If your dog touches or ingests giant hogweed, you should remove them from the plant immediately and take them home to keep them away from sunlight, as any UV light will make the symptoms worse, the experts urged. They added that you should wash your dog thoroughly with soap and water to get rid of as much of the sap from their skin as possible - be sure to wear gloves to protect yourself.
Seek veterinary help as soon as possible, especially if your dog has ingested giant hogweed. The vet can assess the situation, and provide appropriate treatment to relieve your dog of discomfort.
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