Dog experts are warning owners to be vigilant for one of Britain's most dangerous plants that can kill their pets.
Harmful giant hogweed has now entered flowering season, blooming in June and July and can cause serious burns, blisters and boils to both humans and animals.
Two years ago, a dog owner was horrified to find her dog had gone into anaphylactic shock after encountering the deadly plant.
Experts at the Kennel Store, have explained the risk that giant hogweed poses to dogs when touched or ingested, the symptoms of poisoning and what members of the public can do if they see giant hogweed during a dog walk, reports Wales Online.
A spokesperson for Kennel Store said: “When taking your dog on a walk this summer, be sure to look out for giant hogweed, which is poisonous to both humans and animals.
"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."
What does giant hogweed look like?
Giant hogweed (Heracleum mantegazzianum) has a tall and thick stem with purple blotches and large, jagged leaves. They produce umbrella-shaped clusters of white flowers on top.
Where is giant hogweed most common?
As a highly invasive plant, giant hogweed can be found in many grassy or overgrown areas like parks or even gardens, but is commonly found near watercourses and in damp meadows, as well as waste grounds.
How is giant hogweed poisonous?
Giant hogweed produces toxic sap in its stems, leaves, flowers, and roots that reacts to UV light, which results in skin inflammation, blisters, redness, swelling, and pain. The plant can also release 10,000 seeds that spread in the wind. It is especially crucial to avoid this plant in the summer, while the plant is most common during its flowering season and UV light is at its strongest.
The symptoms of poisoning by giant hogweed in dogs
- 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)
What to do if your dog touches or ingests giant hogweed
- Immediately remove them from the plant and take them home and keep them away from sunlight, as UV light will worsen the symptoms
- Wash your dog thoroughly with soap and water to get rid of as much of the sap from their skin as possible - use protective gloves to make sure your own skin doesn’t interact with the poison
- 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
