Pet emergency
My dog ate Pelargonium 'Flower of Spring' — what to do
Step by step
- Take pelargonium 'flower of spring' 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 pelargonium 'flower of spring' — FAQ
Is pelargonium 'flower of spring' poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Pelargonium 'Flower of Spring' (Pelargonium 'Flower of Spring') as toxic to dogs. The ASPCA classifies Geranium (Pelargonium species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses, due to the essential oils geraniol and linalool. Signs of ingestion include vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis. Keep away from pets.
How serious is it if my dog ate pelargonium 'flower of spring'?
Pelargonium 'Flower of Spring' 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. The ASPCA classifies Geranium (Pelargonium species) as toxic to cats, dogs and horses, due to the essential oils geraniol and linalool. Signs of ingestion include vomiting, anorexia, depression and dermatitis. Keep away from pets. 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 pelargonium 'flower of spring' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is pelargonium 'flower of spring' toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Pelargonium 'Flower of Spring' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide