With all this rain, it’s hard to think about gardening and outdoor fun, but please take a few minutes to check your yards and gardens for potential pet hazards.

Did you know that the leaves and stems of some common garden veggies are toxic? - Tomatoes, Onions, Rhubarb and Potatoes all have leaves and stems that are poisonous if ingested. Lillies, Rhododendrons, English Ivy, Foxglove, Tulip Bulbs and Japanese Yews are just a few of the literally hundreds of plants that can harm our pets. The ASPCA website lists over 380 plants that are toxic to dogs & cats! (For more info visit the ASPCA website at http://www.napcc.aspca.org/).

Chocolate appeals to dogs (and is poisonous) so its best to avoid those fragrant cocoa mulches commonly found at garden centers and supermarkets.

Finally, be sure to check your yard for chemicals such as fertilizer, pest control products , swimming pool treatment supplies and antifreeze a-make sure your pet is safe when they finally get to spend more time outdoors.

Clinical signs of poisoning in animals may vary greatly from extreme excitement to severe depression. If you suspect that your pet has been accidentally poisoned, phone your veterinarian and ask for emergency treatment advice. Try to determine what the poison is and how much the pet ingested.

You can also call the ASPCA 24 hour poison control hotline at (888) 426-4435 to speak with a veterinary professional specially trained in dealing with pet poisoning. ( There is a fee for this service)

Suggestions and ideas for column topics are welcome, email shihtzu58@optonline.net