Oleander
Oleander is a popular potted plant that spreads Mediterranean flair with its lush flowers in white, pink or purple. But be careful: oleander is not only beautiful, it is also very poisonous. Contact with the plant can be life-threatening for dogs. In this article, you will find out what oleander is, why it is so poisonous and what you can do to protect your dog.
What is oleander?
Oleander (Nerium oleander) belongs to the dogbane family (Apocynaceae). It is an evergreen shrub that can grow up to six meters high in warm regions. Its dark green, leathery leaves are narrow and elongated. Its flowers are funnel-shaped and are borne in so-called umbels. They can be white, pink, purple or, rarely, yellowish. The wild species of oleander are usually pink, which is also the most common flower color. The brown seeds of the oleander form in pod-like capsules.
Oleander originates from the Mediterranean region, where it can be found both in the wild and in gardens. In Germany, it is a popular potted plant that is kept on balconies or terraces in summer and needs to be slightly protected in winter. There are even frost-hardy varieties that grow well in the garden.
Why is oleander poisonous to dogs?
Oleander is one of the most poisonous plants of all. All parts of the plant contain a variety of toxic substances that can be fatal to humans and animals. Oleandrin, named after the plant, is particularly dangerous. This is a poisonous cardiac glycoside that affects the heart muscles. It has a similar effect to digitalis, the notorious poison of the foxglove. If ingested, it causes cardiac arrhythmia, which can lead to cardiac arrest.
Just one leaf of oleander can cause severe symptoms of poisoning if ingested. In humans, the lethal dose is around 15 to 20 grams of leaves. In dogs, the lethal dose is less than one gram.
But it is not only eating the plant that is dangerous. Contact with the milky sap can also lead to skin irritation and rashes. Care should also be taken to ensure that the dog does not drink from the base of the bucket in which the water containing the toxins collects.
What are the symptoms of oleander poisoning in dogs?
The first signs of oleander poisoning appear in the gastrointestinal tract. Affected dogs suffer from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. In addition, the pupils dilate and the circulation worsens, so that the legs and paws become noticeably cooler.
At higher doses, additional heart problems occur, such as cardiac arrhythmia, slowed or irregular heartbeat and a drop in blood pressure. Movement disorders, impaired consciousness, convulsions and breathing difficulties may also occur.
Death can occur as a result of cardiac arrest.
What can you do if your dog has eaten oleander?
Oleander poisoning is always a cause for immediate emergency action. If you see your dog eating oleander, you should first remove all plant debris from its mouth immediately. Rinse the mouth area with water. It is best to wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards. This is because the plant sap can also harm you.
You should then call your vet or the animal emergency service immediately and make sure that a vet is on site. Then get to them as quickly as possible. It is very helpful for the vet to know what your dog has been poisoned with. If possible, take a piece of the plant or a sample of the vomit with you.
The vet will try to remove the poison from the body and treat the specific symptoms of poisoning. Activated charcoal can be administered to bind the poison from the stomach. If possible, this should be done within two hours of ingesting the poison so that it does not enter the bloodstream.
To stabilize the heart function, he can administer an antidote such as digitalis antibodies. He can also give infusions, oxygen and medication for cramps and pain.
Unfortunately, the prognosis for oleander poisoning is poor. Many dogs do not survive the poisoning or suffer permanent damage to the heart. It is therefore important to avoid poisoning or to recognize it as early as possible.
How can you prevent oleander poisoning in dogs?
The best prevention is, of course, not to have oleander in your house or garden if you have a dog. There are many other beautiful plants that are not poisonous that you can choose instead.
But if you can't or don't want to do without oleander, you should take some precautions to protect your dog:
- Choose a location for the oleander that is out of reach of your dog. For example, place it on a high table or a windowsill.
- Pay attention to cleaning and caring for the oleander. Regularly remove wilted leaves and flowers and dispose of them safely. Only prune the oleander when wearing gloves and wash your hands and scissors thoroughly afterwards.
- Empty the base of the bucket after watering or place it high enough so that your dog cannot drink from it.
- Watch your dog when he is near the oleander. If he shows signs of discomfort or you suspect that he has eaten something from the plant, act immediately.
Oleander is a beautiful but dangerous plant for dogs. It contains the poisonous oleandrin, which can cause cardiac arrhythmia and cardiac arrest. All parts of the plant are poisonous, including the water in the base of the pot. Oleander poisoning is always an emergency and must be treated quickly. Unfortunately, the prognosis is poor. To avoid poisoning, you should not have an oleander or at least place and care for it in such a way that your dog has no contact with it.
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!😊