Superbells are a popular choice for adding a splash of color to gardens across America. But if you’re a dog owner, you’re probably wondering: are superbells poisonous to dogs? The short answer is: it’s complicated. While Superbells aren’t considered highly toxic, they can still cause mild gastrointestinal upset if ingested by your furry friend. Let’s dive deeper into understanding the potential risks and how to keep your canine companion safe.
Understanding Superbells and Their Potential Impact on Dogs
Superbells are a type of calibrachoa, a close relative of the petunia. While they aren’t listed as toxic by the ASPCA, they can still cause some unpleasant symptoms if your dog decides to snack on them. This is primarily due to the plant’s mildly irritating sap.
What Happens If My Dog Eats Superbells?
If your dog nibbles on a Superbell, the most common symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, and drooling. These symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own. However, if your dog ingests a large quantity of Superbells, more severe symptoms like loss of appetite, lethargy, and abdominal pain could occur.
Keeping Your Dog Safe Around Superbells
The best way to protect your dog is to prevent access to Superbells in the first place. Consider placing them in hanging baskets, on high shelves, or in fenced-off areas where your dog can’t reach them. Training your dog to “leave it” when it comes to plants can also be incredibly helpful.
What to Do If Your Dog Ingests Superbells
If you suspect your dog has eaten Superbells, monitor them closely for any signs of illness. If they show any symptoms or if you’re concerned, contact your veterinarian immediately. They can provide specific advice based on your dog’s breed, size, and the amount of plant material ingested. Having a picture of the plant on hand can be beneficial when talking to your vet.
Are There Dog-Friendly Alternatives to Superbells?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for beautiful, vibrant flowers that are safe for your furry friends, consider options like zinnias, sunflowers, snapdragons, or marigolds. These are all non-toxic to dogs and can add a touch of color to your garden without posing a risk to your canine companion.
Conclusion
While Superbells aren’t highly toxic to dogs, they can still cause mild digestive upset. By taking preventative measures and knowing what to do in case of ingestion, you can keep your dog safe and enjoy the beauty of Superbells in your garden. Remember, a proactive approach is always the best when it comes to protecting our four-legged family members.
FAQ
- Are Superbells toxic to cats? Similar to dogs, Superbells can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in cats if ingested.
- What part of the Superbell plant is toxic? The entire plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers, contains mildly irritating sap.
- Can Superbells cause skin irritation in dogs? While less common, contact with the sap can sometimes cause mild skin irritation in sensitive dogs.
- How long do symptoms last after a dog eats Superbells? Symptoms are typically mild and resolve within a few hours.
- Are there other names for Superbells? Superbells is a trademarked name for a type of calibrachoa. They are sometimes referred to as “million bells” or “trailing petunias.”
- Should I induce vomiting if my dog eats Superbells? Never induce vomiting unless directed by your veterinarian.
- Are all calibrachoa varieties equally toxic to dogs? Yes, all calibrachoa varieties, including Superbells, have a similar level of toxicity.
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