Fodder vetch
Fodder vetch is an annual herbaceous plant from the papilionaceous family. It is often grown as a green manure or fodder plant and flowers from March to October. The vetch has blue or purple flowers and feathery leaves with tendrils at the end.
Caution: Sweet pea is poisonous to dogs!
Although vetch is edible for humans and some animals, it is very dangerous for dogs. The plant contains the toxic substance vicin, which can lead to severe symptoms of poisoning. These include, among other things
- sweating
- excitement
- Laryngeal whistling
- shortness of breath
- Gait disturbances due to paralysis
- Skin rash
- Stomach and intestinal complaints
If you suspect that your dog has eaten vetch, you should consult a vet immediately. Depending on the severity of the poisoning, medication or even gastric lavage may be necessary.
How can you protect your dog from vetch?
The best prevention is, of course, to keep your dog away from vetch. Make sure that he does not sniff or eat in meadows or fields where the plant grows. If you have sweet peas in your garden, you should remove them or at least protect them so that your dog cannot reach them.
You should also always make sure that your dog gets enough high-quality food. The right amount of food depends on various factors such as your dog's age, weight and activity level. If your dog is fed enough, he will have less desire for foreign plants.
Vetch may look beautiful and be useful for other purposes, but it is an absolute no-go for dogs. So be careful and keep your four-legged friend away from this poisonous plant!
If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.
Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊
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