Now that spring has sprung, flowers that grow from bulbs are everywhere.

Daffodils are the most common of these and if eaten by dogs can show toxic consequences; both the bulbs and the flowers can cause toxicity, luckily these poisonings generally just show mild signs such as vomiting but occasionally more serious effects can occur.

Most of the toxins (alkaloids and glycosides) are contained in the bulb and if eaten in high volumes they initially just cause vomiting and diarrhoea, but this can be followed by lethargy, weakness, low blood pressure and dehydration. All these conditions can be treated with supportive therapy in the vets and dogs tend to recover well but they are worrying symptoms for owners and pretty unpleasant for the pet.

Other bulbs such as Tulip, Primrose and Grape Hyacinth are much less toxic and will only produce mild stomach upsets. Likewise, spring crocuses are of low toxicity (though, interestingly, the Autumn Crocus can be highly toxic)

In conclusion it is best that you try and prevent your dog from eating spring plants, particularly daffodils, if you think that they have eaten these plants then contact your vet, these toxicities are seldom life threatening but may well need supportive treatment at the surgery.

Alice Moore is a vet at Castle Veterinary Clinic, Dorchester and Weymouth. Tel 01305 267083