Pet emergency
My dog ate Vancouver Jade Bearberry — what to do
Step by step
- Take vancouver jade bearberry 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 vancouver jade bearberry — FAQ
Is vancouver jade bearberry poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Vancouver Jade Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi 'Vancouver Jade') as mildly toxic to dogs. As with the species, 'Vancouver Jade' contains arbutin and tannins. The berries are edible for humans in small quantities and a traditional food, but large consumption can cause gastrointestinal upset. Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is not individually listed by the ASPCA as toxic to pets; however, arbutin (a hydroquinone glycoside) may be harmful to cats or dogs in quantity. Seek veterinary advice before allowing pet access.
How serious is it if my dog ate vancouver jade bearberry?
Vancouver Jade Bearberry 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. As with the species, 'Vancouver Jade' contains arbutin and tannins. The berries are edible for humans in small quantities and a traditional food, but large consumption can cause gastrointestinal upset. Arctostaphylos uva-ursi is not individually listed by the ASPCA as toxic to pets; however, arbutin (a hydroquinone glycoside) may be harmful to cats or dogs in quantity. Seek veterinary advice before allowing pet access. 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 vancouver jade bearberry well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is vancouver jade bearberry toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Vancouver Jade Bearberry and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide