Pet emergency
My dog ate Vera lavender — what to do
Step by step
- Take vera lavender 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 vera lavender — FAQ
Is vera lavender poisonous to dogs?
Yes — the ASPCA lists Vera lavender (Lavandula angustifolia 'Vera') as mildly toxic to dogs. Lavandula angustifolia is listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats, with linalool and linalyl acetate causing nausea, vomiting, and inappetence if ingested in significant quantities. Topical lavender essential oil is more concentrated and more dangerous than incidental contact with the plant. Generally low risk outdoors but keep pets from eating foliage.
How serious is it if my dog ate vera lavender?
Vera lavender 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. Lavandula angustifolia is listed by ASPCA as toxic to dogs and cats, with linalool and linalyl acetate causing nausea, vomiting, and inappetence if ingested in significant quantities. Topical lavender essential oil is more concentrated and more dangerous than incidental contact with the plant. Generally low risk outdoors but keep pets from eating foliage. 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 vera lavender well out of reach, or swap it for an ASPCA non-toxic plant — see the best dogs-safe plants list.
Related
- Is vera lavender toxic to dogs? — full toxicity detail
- Vera lavender and pets — the complete ASPCA pet-safety guide