Pet emergency
My dog ate Bog Arum — what to do
Step by step
- Take bog arum away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
- Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
- Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
- Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
- Watch for drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or lethargy, and bring a leaf or photo to the appointment.
This is general guidance, not veterinary advice. Pets vary, and a reaction may be to soil, fertiliser, or pesticide as well as the plant. When in doubt, call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435.
My dog ate bog arum — FAQ
Is bog arum poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Bog Arum (Calla palustris) as toxic to dogs. All parts of Calla palustris contain calcium oxalate raphides, as with other Araceae. Ingestion causes intense oral burning, swelling, drooling, and gastrointestinal distress in cats, dogs, and humans. The red berries are particularly attractive and hazardous. Keep away from children and pets. ASPCA lists Calla species as toxic to cats and dogs.
How serious is it if my dog ate bog arum?
Bog Arum is toxic to dogs and reactions can be significant, so treat any ingestion as urgent. Call your vet or poison control on (888) 426-4435 straight away rather than waiting to see if symptoms develop.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. All parts of Calla palustris contain calcium oxalate raphides, as with other Araceae. Ingestion causes intense oral burning, swelling, drooling, and gastrointestinal distress in cats, dogs, and humans. The red berries are particularly attractive and hazardous. Keep away from children and pets. ASPCA lists Calla species as toxic to cats and dogs. Any worsening or persistent symptoms warrant an immediate vet visit.
Should I make my dog vomit?
No — do not induce vomiting unless a vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center specifically tells you to. The wrong action can make things worse. Call (888) 426-4435 and follow professional advice.
How do I stop this happening again?
Keep bog arum well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is bog arum toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Bog Arum and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide