Pet emergency
My dog ate Prunus 'Spire' — what to do
Step by step
- Take prunus 'spire' 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 prunus 'spire' — FAQ
Is prunus 'spire' poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Prunus 'Spire' (Prunus 'Spire') as toxic to dogs. As a Prunus cultivar, 'Spire' falls under the ASPCA's toxic listing for cherries, hazardous to cats, dogs and horses. Cyanogenic glycosides in leaves, stems and seeds release cyanide; signs include laboured breathing, dilated pupils, bright-red gums and shock. Keep prunings and any fallen fruit away from pets.
How serious is it if my dog ate prunus 'spire'?
Prunus 'Spire' 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. As a Prunus cultivar, 'Spire' falls under the ASPCA's toxic listing for cherries, hazardous to cats, dogs and horses. Cyanogenic glycosides in leaves, stems and seeds release cyanide; signs include laboured breathing, dilated pupils, bright-red gums and shock. Keep prunings and any fallen fruit 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 prunus 'spire' well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is prunus 'spire' toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Prunus 'Spire' and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide