Dogs Trust Ballymena has warned dog owners about toxic spring plants. The alert comes as spring starts this week ahead of March 20.

Common plants such as daffodils, tulips and bluebells can poison dogs. Daffodil bulbs cause vomiting, diarrhoea and seizures. Tulip bulbs lead to drooling and stomach irritation. Bluebells affect the heart and can kill in large amounts.

Rhododendrons, azaleas and amaryllis also pose risks. These cause severe illness, tremors and muscle weakness even in small quantities. Other plants include buttercups, crocuses, primrose, cyclamen, elderberry, foxglove, hyacinth and lupin.

Symptoms range from vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling and lethargy to breathing issues, tremors and seizures. Some cases prove fatal without prompt treatment.

Aideen O’Connor, Senior Veterinary Surgeon at Dogs Trust, stated that daffodils and tulips harm dogs that dig in gardens. She advised seeking vet care right away if a dog ingests spring bulbs, even without symptoms.

Owners should verify plants are safe for dogs before planting. The charity recommends dog-friendly gardens with safe herbs, varied textures, climbing features, shaded areas and supervised water access.