Pet emergency
My dog ate Spencer Mixed sweet pea — what to do
Step by step
- Take spencer mixed sweet pea 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 spencer mixed sweet pea — FAQ
Is spencer mixed sweet pea poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Spencer Mixed sweet pea (Lathyrus odoratus 'Spencer Mixed') as mildly toxic to dogs. The ASPCA lists sweet pea (Lathyrus) as toxic to horses; for dogs and cats the primary concern relates to the toxic aminopropionitrile in seeds and pods. Seeds and unripe pods contain lathyrogenic compounds that in large quantities cause lathyrism (neurological weakness, paralysis). The flowers are not considered significantly hazardous but the seeds and pods must never be consumed. Wear gloves when handling and keep seed packets away from children and pets. RHS also advises against eating pods or seeds.
How serious is it if my dog ate spencer mixed sweet pea?
Spencer Mixed sweet pea 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 lists sweet pea (Lathyrus) as toxic to horses; for dogs and cats the primary concern relates to the toxic aminopropionitrile in seeds and pods. Seeds and unripe pods contain lathyrogenic compounds that in large quantities cause lathyrism (neurological weakness, paralysis). The flowers are not considered significantly hazardous but the seeds and pods must never be consumed. Wear gloves when handling and keep seed packets away from children and pets. RHS also advises against eating pods or seeds. 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 spencer mixed sweet pea well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is spencer mixed sweet pea toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Spencer Mixed sweet pea and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide