Pet emergency
My dog ate Timperley Early Rhubarb — what to do
Step by step
- Take timperley early rhubarb 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 timperley early rhubarb — FAQ
Is timperley early rhubarb poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Timperley Early Rhubarb (Rheum × hybridum 'Timperley Early') as toxic to dogs. ASPCA lists rhubarb as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, concentrated in the leaves (the edible stalks are safe for people once cooked). Reported signs include kidney failure, tremors and salivation. Keep pets away from the foliage and never compost leaves where animals graze.
How serious is it if my dog ate timperley early rhubarb?
Timperley Early Rhubarb 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. ASPCA lists rhubarb as toxic to dogs, cats and horses. The toxic principle is soluble calcium oxalates, concentrated in the leaves (the edible stalks are safe for people once cooked). Reported signs include kidney failure, tremors and salivation. Keep pets away from the foliage and never compost leaves where animals graze. 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 timperley early rhubarb well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is timperley early rhubarb toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Timperley Early Rhubarb and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide