What is Elderberry?
Elderberry is a flowering shrub that belongs to the Caprifoliaceae family. It is native to Europe, North Africa, and western Asia, and can now be found in many parts of the world. The plant typically grows to a height of six feet and has clusters of small white or cream-colored flowers.
Elderberries can be eaten raw, cooked, or made into jams, jellies, and pies. They are also used to make wine, cordials, and liqueurs.
The berries are a rich source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants and flavonoids. Elderberry supplements are sometimes taken to treat colds, flu, and other respiratory infections. Some people also apply elderberry extract to the skin for diaper rash, eczema, burns, insect bites, and wounds.
Clinical evidence to support these uses is limited, but elderberry is generally considered safe when taken in small amounts. side effects may include upset stomach and diarrhea. When applied to the skin, elderberry can cause irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
Is Elderberry Toxic to Dogs?
Many people enjoy using elderberry for its medicinal properties, but is it safe to give to dogs? The short answer is no, elderberry is toxic to dogs. The active ingredients in elderberry, such as cyanogenic glycosides, can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and other digestive issues in dogs. Elderberry can also cause liver damage and respiratory problems. If you suspect your dog has eaten elderberry, contact your veterinarian immediately.
There is no specific treatment for elderberry poisoning in dogs, but early intervention can improve the chances of a full recovery. Some common symptoms of elderberry poisoning in dogs include vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and abdominal pain. In severe cases, elderberry poisoning can lead to liver failure and death. If you believe your dog has ingested any amount of elderberry, it is important to seek veterinary care immediately.
While there is no specific antidote for elderberry poisoning, early treatment can improve the chances of a full recovery. Elderberry poisoning is a serious condition that can be fatal in dogs, so it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms and seek veterinary care if you suspect your dog has ingested any amount of this plant.
Diagnosis of Elderberry Poisoning in Dogs
If you believe your pet has ingested any part of an elderberry plant do not hesitate to contact your veterinarian. Cyanide toxicity from ingesting any portion of the plant material can be rapidly fatal and seeking early treatment is essential. If you witnessed the consumption of the plant material, then plant identification may be all that is required for diagnosing the origin of your pet’s affliction. If the cause of the toxicity is not immediately known, your veterinarian will want to get information about opportunistic eating that may have occurred as well as any prescriptions that your dog is taking. Many of the symptoms are similar to symptoms and signs of other types of poisoning, however, certain symptoms such as the cherry red blood and the smell of bitter almonds on the breath, are more unique to cyanide poisonings. Cyanide can be detected in the blood and the urine in the first few hours post death, but if cyanide exposure is suspected treatment is generally begun without waiting for the result.