Sweet woodruff (Galium odoratum) is a popular perennial groundcover, often chosen for its delicate white flowers and ability to thrive in shady garden areas. For dog owners, however, a primary concern arises regarding the safety of this plant for their canine companions.
Toxicity of Sweet Woodruff
Sweet woodruff is considered toxic to dogs due to the presence of coumarin compounds. These compounds are found throughout the plant, including the leaves, stems, and flowers. When ingested by dogs, coumarin can interfere with the body’s blood clotting mechanisms.
The severity of the reaction depends on several factors, including the amount of plant material consumed and the dog’s size. While even small quantities can potentially cause mild digestive upset, larger ingestions increase the risk of more serious health complications. This is because coumarin, once metabolized, can act as an anticoagulant, disrupting blood coagulation.
Symptoms of Ingestion
Dogs that have ingested sweet woodruff may exhibit a range of symptoms, from mild gastrointestinal distress to more severe effects on their circulatory system. Initially, signs such as vomiting, diarrhea, and a general lack of appetite may appear.
As the coumarin begins to affect the dog’s ability to clot blood, more concerning symptoms can emerge. Pet owners might observe unexplained bruising on the skin or pale gums. In more severe cases, bleeding from the nose, gums, or even into the urine or feces can occur. Weakness, lethargy, and a wobbly gait are also possible signs, potentially leading to collapse.
Emergency Response and Prevention
If you suspect your dog has ingested sweet woodruff, contacting a veterinarian or an animal poison control center immediately is crucial. Provide information including the estimated amount of plant eaten, the time of ingestion, your dog’s weight, and any symptoms observed. Do not attempt to induce vomiting unless specifically instructed to do so by a veterinary professional, as this can sometimes cause more harm than good.
Identify sweet woodruff in your garden; it typically grows low to the ground with distinctive whorls of 6 to 8 lance-shaped leaves around the stem, producing small, star-shaped white flowers in spring. Consider removing the plant entirely from areas accessible to your dog, or create physical barriers like fencing to restrict access to garden beds containing sweet woodruff. Supervise your dog closely outdoors to prevent them from chewing on or consuming any plants.