Dogs are inquisitive animals, and as a pet parent, an amateur gardener or a hobby of putting flowers in your house, you may ask yourself: Is jasmine toxic to dogs? This is a justifiable issue since not every beautiful plant is pet-safe.
Through this article, we will discuss all the things you should know about jasmine and its safety with dogs. Whether you need to know the various kinds of jasmine, what to look out in the case of symptoms, how to make your garden dog friendly, and so on, this guide will be written with the American pet owner in mind.
What Is Jasmine?
Jasmine is a generic name employed to denote several species of plants which have white or yellow fragrant flowers. However, not every plant referred to as jasmine is really a jasmine and that difference does matter when it relates to the safety of your dog.
Types of Jasmine Plants
The most frequently used ones are:
Common Jasmine: A plant which is a true jasmine, and has a sweet smell.
Star Jasmine: A widely grown climbing vine, which is not a true jasmine.
Carolina Jasmine: A very toxic plant even though the name suggests otherwise.
Arabian Jasmine: It is a real jasmine and is utilized as teas and perfumes.
Cestrum nocturnum Jasmine: It is no jasmine and may be poisonous.
It is important that you know the distinction between the true jasmine and those that just bear the name so that your pet will be safe.
Is Jasmine Toxic to Dogs?
The Short Answer
The genus Jasminum is not toxic but is considered to be true jasmine. Nonetheless, there are other plants bearing the name jasmine, yet belonging to other botanical families, which are toxic or even lethal.
Let's break it down.
Non-Toxic Jasmines (Safe for Dogs)
The following are true jasmine plants and are considered non-toxic to dogs according to the ASPCA and other veterinary sources:
- Jasminum officinale (Common Jasmine)
- Jasminum sambac (Arabian Jasmine)
- Jasminum polyanthum (Pink Jasmine)
Such plants are not toxic, only they may lead to minor intestinal discomfort when consumed in large amounts. There is little chance that, when your dog nibbles some of the leaves or flowers, it is hazardous.
Toxic “Jasmines” (Not True Jasmines)
Here's where it gets tricky. There are plants called jasmine which belong to no genus of the Jasminum genus, and which are also toxic to dogs.
Carolina Jasmine (Gelsemium sempervirens)
Toxicity: Highly toxic
Symptoms Vomiting, difficulty breathing, muscle weakness, paralysis, seizures, death.
Notes: This plant is native to southern United States and it is particularly hazardous to both dogs and human beings.
Night-Blooming Jasmine (Cestrum nocturnum)
Toxicity: Potentially toxic
Symptoms: Nausea and vomiting, confusion, lethargy.
Notes: Grown frequently because of its high fragrance at night; toxic alkaloids are found in it, and act on the digestive and nervous systems.
Yellow Jasmine (Also Gelsemium species)
Toxicity: Very toxic
Symptoms: Like Carolina jasmine – tremors, seizures, paralysis.
Notes: This type of drug is often confused with safe varieties because of their resemblance in terms of appearance and name.
Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasmine)
Toxicity: In general, non-toxic.
Symptoms (in case): Mild dejeuner.
Notes: Not a genuine jasmine but should be safe in low doses. Keep track of whether your dog chews a lot of it.
Symptoms of Jasmine Poisoning in Dogs
In case your dog has eaten a potentially toxic type of jasmine, the symptoms can be visible within minutes of a few hours.
Observe the following symptoms:
- Vomiting or nausea
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy or weakness
- Drooling
- Loss of coordination
- Seizures or muscle tremors
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular heartbeat
Important: In case of any of such symptoms and in case you suspect that your dog is a victim of plant poisoning, contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (888-426-4435) as soon as possible.
What to Do if Your Dog Eats Jasmine
Step-by-Step Guide
Identify the Plant
Note the plant that your dog fed on. You are allowed to take a picture or give a sample to your vet in case you can.
Check for Symptoms
Keep an eye on your dog when it is not looking well even when you think he or she is ok.
Call Your Veterinarian
It is not necessary to wait before symptoms manifest in the event you are not sure about the safety of the plant.
Call a Pet Poison Hotline
- ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435)
- Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661)
Do Not Induce Vomiting Unless Instructed
Vomiting may be very beneficial or harmful, depending on the toxin, which is involved.
How to Dog-Proof Your Garden and Home
You must be keen on your landscaping and indoor plants so as to ensure the safety of your furry friend.
Tips for a Dog-Safe Garden
Research Before You Plant: Never forget to inquire of new plants whether they are toxic or not.
Install Raised Planters or Barriers: Prevents dogs chewing out of curiosity.
Supervise Outdoor Time: Wait, in particular, when your dog is a digger or grazer.
Train “Leave It” Instruction: A saving grace to Curiosity of a Plant.
Indoor Plant Safety
Keep Plants Out of Reach: Hanging or high shelves.
Choose Pet-Safe Plants: As such spider plants, Boston ferns and true jasmines.
Avoid Confusing Names: It is always important to use the botanical name when researching on safety.
Safe Alternatives to Jasmine for Dog Owners
If you love the look and scent of jasmine but want to be extra cautious, consider these dog-safe alternatives:
Lavender (used sparingly): It may lead to the slight stomach upset when over-used.
Snapdragons: It is Non-toxic and colorful to the dogs.
Marigolds: These are generally safe and they keep off pests.
Roses: It’s Old-fashioned, safe and gorgeous.
Spider Plants: It is not only an indoor plant but also pet friendly.
FAQ
Is the smell of jasmine harmful to dogs?
No. The smell of the real jasmine plants does not hurt dogs. Nevertheless, overpowering products of the jasmine scent can offend the sensitive dogs.
Can dogs eat jasmine rice?
Yes! Jasmine rice is utterly safe and commonly found in monotonous diets of a dog with stomach complications. It is all you need to do is to make sure it is plain, without spices, or seasoning.
What if my dog rolls in jasmine plants?
True jasmine would not do any harm when touched on the skin. In case of allergy or sensitivity of your dog, wash them and monitor the irritation of skin with water.
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