10 toxic plants that could poison your pup and how to keep them safe

As spring creeps its way back in, many Australians are itching to watch their gardens bloom. As a new dog mum, the thought makes me want to scream.
"My hydrangeas will be coming back soon," my mum says with a grin.
"Mhm," I sigh, holding back what I really want to say.
Blooming hydrangeas don't exactly bring a smile to my face. They remind me how much more attention I'll now have to pay to my 9-month old puppy, Maple.
Hydrangeas are one of the most toxic flowers a dog can ingest. They contain a substance called amygdalin, which can induce vomiting, excessive drooling, lethargy, and in serious cases, seizures.
If you're a new pup owner like myself, you've probably spent a lot of time researching things that can harm our best friends.
We all know the classics, like chocolate and grapes, but most of us don't know that some toxins may already be planted in our backyards!
With spring officially making its debut for the year, I've jotted down some of the flowers pet owners should be aware of to keep their furry friends happy and safe.
10 spring flowers that are toxic for dogs
- Hydrangeas
- Geraniums
- Calla lily's
- Peonies
- Tulips
- Lilies
- Daffodils
- Begonias
- Chrysanthemums
- Hyacinths
Now I’m not sure whether I got the Hoover of the litter, but one of Maple’s most…prominent traits is that she inhales everything she sees. Rocks, feathers, dirt, you name it, and I guarantee it has been in her mouth.
And who could blame her? Puppies explore the world with their mouths. But it doesn’t mean I should get stuck with an eye-watering vet bill when she bites off more than she can chew, so to speak.
And it’s why purchasing pet insurance was one of the first things I did when I brought Maple home.
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Keeping your pet safe during spring and beyond
According to the RSPCA, dog owners spend a minimum of $915 a year on general and routine care. That number doesn't account for emergency vet visits or surgery they may need in the future.
Purchasing a pet insurance policy can significantly reduce the cost of veterinary care when your pet needs it the most.
Varying degrees of cover are available, allowing you to choose a product that best fits your needs. You'll often have your pick between accident-only cover, routine care cover or comprehensive coverage.
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Have a pet that loves to cause trouble? Protect them against life's mishaps with a comprehensive pet insurance policy.
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