Pet emergency
My dog ate Gunnera manicata — what to do
Step by step
- Take gunnera manicata 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 gunnera manicata — FAQ
Is gunnera manicata poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Gunnera manicata (Gunnera manicata) as mildly toxic to dogs. Gunnera manicata is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists; despite the common name it is unrelated to true rhubarb (Rheum, which the ASPCA does list as toxic). Its pet status is unconfirmed, so treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe.
How serious is it if my dog ate gunnera manicata?
Gunnera manicata 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. Gunnera manicata is not individually listed on the ASPCA Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant lists; despite the common name it is unrelated to true rhubarb (Rheum, which the ASPCA does list as toxic). Its pet status is unconfirmed, so treat it with caution and verify with a vet rather than assuming it is safe. 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 gunnera manicata well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is gunnera manicata toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Gunnera manicata and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide