Pet emergency
My dog ate Geranium sanguineum 'Album' — what to do
Step by step
- Take geranium sanguineum 'album' 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 geranium sanguineum 'album' — FAQ
Is geranium sanguineum 'album' poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Geranium sanguineum 'Album' (Geranium sanguineum 'Album') as mildly toxic to dogs. The ASPCA's 'Geranium' / 'Scented Geranium' toxic entries cover Pelargonium species (geraniol and linalool), not the true cranesbills. Geranium sanguineum is not individually listed by the ASPCA; true hardy geraniums are widely regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, but lacking a specific ASPCA non-toxic listing it is rated mildly-toxic as a precaution. Verify with a vet and discourage pets from chewing the foliage.
How serious is it if my dog ate geranium sanguineum 'album'?
Geranium sanguineum 'Album' is mildly toxic, so most dogs get short-lived mouth irritation, drooling, and vomiting rather than a life-threatening reaction. It is still worth a vet call to be safe, especially if your dog ate a lot or symptoms persist.
What symptoms should I watch for?
Signs usually appear soon after chewing: drooling, pawing at the mouth, vomiting, loss of appetite, or unusual lethargy. The ASPCA's 'Geranium' / 'Scented Geranium' toxic entries cover Pelargonium species (geraniol and linalool), not the true cranesbills. Geranium sanguineum is not individually listed by the ASPCA; true hardy geraniums are widely regarded as non-toxic to cats and dogs, but lacking a specific ASPCA non-toxic listing it is rated mildly-toxic as a precaution. Verify with a vet and discourage pets from chewing the foliage. 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 geranium sanguineum 'album' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is geranium sanguineum 'album' toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Geranium sanguineum 'Album' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide