Colorado Wildflowers that are Toxic for Dogs

While most dogs enjoy the outdoors, often frolicking through a field, it may not always be safe. Many native land plants are poisonous to animals, whether you know it or not. It is best to educate yourself on the toxic plants in your area to allow your dog to enjoy wildlife without putting their lives at risk. Here are some Colorado wildflowers that your furry friend should stay away from. 

Larkspur

Larkspur flowers provide the early springtime with bright, colorful pops of blues and purples. These plants feature long, thin poles of the Larkspur flower. While some people plant these pretties in their gardens, they can mainly be found growing wild in woods and meadows. Although a gorgeous plant, it is best to stay away from these as they are poisonous. All Larkspur are poisonous, but the new growth-containing seeds contain the highest poison concentration. A neuromuscular paralysis substance causes the method of toxicity. This toxic substance can lead to respiratory failure, bloating, and death. 

Water Hemlock

This hemlock plant can often be found growing in wet areas of meadows or along rivers or other bodies of water. It appears in an umbrella-like cluster that has dainty white flowers. Water hemlock is considered the most poisonous plant in North America as every part is toxic, and death can occur within 15 minutes of contamination. Contamination can occur by ingestion or when applied to the skin. The initial symptoms include nausea, drooling, vomiting, wheezing, and many more. These initial symptoms are followed by side effects like trouble breathing, convulsions, heart problems, kidney failure, coma, and death.

Death Camas

The Death Camas is a perennial with long, grass-like leaves emerging from an onion-like bulb. The plants typically have six-petalled flowers ranging from white to green, small and dainty. As the name implies, this plant is hazardous to humans and animals alike. The bulb and mature leaves are the most toxic, although the entire plant is, and signs of poisoning can occur after eating tiny amounts of the plant. Ingestion can cause severe illness and even death. 

Locoweed

The Locoweed is a perennial plant with foot-long leaves covered with tiny silvery hairs. The flowers are white with purple tips that look like little peas poised on a leafless stalk. There are seeds, which are smooth and brown, kept within a pod. Locoweed is poisonous at all times, even when dried, as it contains a toxic alkaloid. The symptoms can include appetite loss, heart failure, depression, seizures, loss of body control, and death. This plant is associated with the most poisonous plant problems in the western United States. 

If you are looking to take your dog hiking this year or simply are looking for plants to watch out for, this guide is a reasonable precaution. Observing what your dog is munching on while outside is important to keep them healthy and happy.