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If your dog ate square-stalked st john's-wort — do this now

  1. Take the plant away and clear any pieces from their mouth.
  2. Do not induce vomiting unless told to by a professional.
  3. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 now.

Square-stalked St John's-wort is toxic to dogs (ASPCA).

Pet emergency

My dog ate Square-stalked St John's-wort — what to do

Step by step

  1. Take square-stalked st john's-wort away and remove any plant material from your dog's mouth so they cannot eat more.
  2. Note roughly how much was eaten and when — this helps the vet judge the risk.
  3. Do NOT induce vomiting unless a vet or poison-control specialist tells you to.
  4. Call your vet or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center on (888) 426-4435 (a consultation fee may apply) and follow their advice.
  5. 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 square-stalked st john's-wort — FAQ

Is square-stalked st john's-wort poisonous to dogs?

Yes — the ASPCA lists Square-stalked St John's-wort (Hypericum tetrapterum) as toxic to dogs. As a Hypericum species, it contains hypericin, the toxic principle identified by the ASPCA in St John's Wort (H. perforatum), which is listed as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Clinical signs include photosensitization and ulcerative dermatitis. The RHS also notes the fruits are not for consumption and recommends caution when handling. Treat as toxic to companion animals and keep pets away from the plant.

How serious is it if my dog ate square-stalked st john's-wort?

Square-stalked St John's-wort 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 Hypericum species, it contains hypericin, the toxic principle identified by the ASPCA in St John's Wort (H. perforatum), which is listed as toxic to dogs, cats, and horses. Clinical signs include photosensitization and ulcerative dermatitis. The RHS also notes the fruits are not for consumption and recommends caution when handling. Treat as toxic to companion animals and keep pets away from the plant. 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 square-stalked st john's-wort well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.

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