Toxic Plants Linked to Animal Deaths

Family Pet Eats Toxic Plant, Dies - Humane Society Warns Pet Owners Of Toxic Plants

February 7, 2006

SAN DIEGO - A Poway family shares their story in hopes they will spare another family of the loss they have experienced.

It was innocent enough when the Anderson's pet schnauzers ate a plant in their back yard.

The trouble began after Beth Anderson bought a plant called Yesterday, Today and Tomorrow from Wal-Mart and planted it in her back yard

"I bought it because it did well in the shade. It had cute flowers," Anderson said.

But those cute flowers are highly toxic, and in this case deadly. One of Anderson's schnauzers died and the other, Jill, was in the veternarian's hospital for days.

The San Diego Humane Society recommends owners do their research before selecting plants for their home. It is important to keep in mind that, not only certain plants but even specific plant parts, can be toxic and can affect dogs, cats and small animals.

Anderson said store officials seemed concerned but 10News checked and the plants are still on the shelves. Right now, Anderson's main concern is for other pet owners.

"It's been a rough week ... it's been difficult," Anderson said.

A little bit of reseach could have saved a lot of grief.

A Wal-Mart spokesperson said the store is looking into the problem.

If you think your animal has ingested a poisonous substance, immediately contact your veterinarian, take your pet to an emergency veterinary hospital, or call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at (888) 426-4435.

On April 20, the San Diego Humane Society is hosting a class called "Planting With Your Pooch." To register, or for more information, visit San Diego Humane Society .

MOST POISONOUS PLANTS FOR ANIMALS:
Marijuana
Sago Palm
Lilies
Tulip/Narcissus bulbs
Azalea/Rhododendron
Oleander
Castor Bean
Cyclamen
Kalanchoe
Yew
Foxglove
List Of All Toxic Plants

SD HUMANE SOCIETY - Phone: (619) 243-3424

Web Site: San Diego Humane Society