Dogs Archives - EquiGroomer Horse and Pet Tools

Gardens are beautiful havens for humans but can also harbor toxic garden dangers to our pets. Many plants, mulch, fertilizer, and pesticides commonly found in gardens can be toxic to cats, dogs, and horses. Symptoms can range from vomiting, diarrhea, organ failure, depression, and worse.

Below are SIX common but toxic garden dangers for pets, including cats, dogs, and horses.

Oleander (Nerium oleander): Highly Toxic

Oleander is a popular ornamental shrub known for its beautiful flowers. Ingesting any part of the plant can cause severe gastrointestinal issues, colic, drooling, heart problems, and even death. The danger is significant for dogs, cats, and horses, making it essential to avoid planting oleander if you have pets.

Also known as Rose-Bay.

Did you know there’s an ASPCA mobile app for 300+ everyday hazards for pets with information about the severity and critical next steps for both iOS and Android?

Sago Palm (Cycas revoluta): Extremely Toxic

Sago palms are another popular garden plant, especially in warmer climates. If any part of the plant is ingested by either a dog, cat, or horse (or just 1-2 seeds, which are even more toxic), it can affect the nervous system, cause gastrointestinal tract bleeding, liver failure, and even death. So, if you have pets, avoiding sago palms altogether is best.

Also known as Coontie Palm, Cardboard Plam, Cycads and Zamias.

Azaleas (Ohodedendron species)

These flowering shrubs are common due to their beautiful blooms. However, they contain substances called grayanotoxins, which can cause vomiting (not in horses), diarrhea, weakness, and severe cardiovascular issues in pets. Both dogs and cats are at risk, and horses can also suffer similar symptoms if they ingest this toxic garden danger.

Also known as Rosebay and Rhodeodendron.

Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis): Severe Risk

Lily of the Valley is a charming plant with delicate white flowers. Still, it contains cardiac glycosides, which can cause heart arrhythmias, digestive problems, low blood pressure, seizures, colic, and even death. Cats are particularly susceptible, but dogs and horses are also at high risk. If you have pets, you should avoid all kinds of lilies to protect your pets.

Immediately consult with your veterinarian or poison control if you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic!

*Lily of the Valley is a Toxic Danger to Pets*

Buttercups (Ranunculus species)

Buttercups may look innocent with their bright yellow flowers, but they contain an irritant compound called protoanemonin, which is toxic to pets. Ingesting buttercups can cause drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, and even skin irritation in dogs, cats, and horses. Monitor your pets to ensure they don’t munch on these seemingly harmless flowers.

Also known as Butter Cress and Figwort.

Another Common Garden Risk: Cocoa Mulch

Gardeners often use cocoa mulch for its attractive appearance and pleasant smell. However, it contains theobromine, a toxic substance to dogs, cats, and even horses. Ingesting cocoa mulch can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, seizures, and even death. If you have pets, choosing a safer mulch option without cocoa beans (or dyes) is best.

ASPCA 24-Hour Emergency Poison Hotline: 888-4 26-4435.
(A consultation fee may apply.)

Conclusion

Gardening can be a joyful and therapeutic activity, but we should be aware of the potential toxic garden dangers to our pets. Keeping our gardens safe for our pets requires vigilance and knowledge. By being aware of these common toxic dangers, we can protect our beloved cats, dogs, and horses while enjoying the beauty of our outdoor spaces.

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The term “bitch” carries a weighty history, both linguistically and culturally. Often used as a colloquial term to refer to a female dog (and female wolf, fox and otter!), its usage can also evoke strong reactions and opinions when this derogatory word is directed at something other than a female dog. Originally, this vulgar insult was used to compare a woman to a dog in heat because of her shameful, improper, violent or even promiscuous behavior. It has also been used towards men.

But why is a non-spayed, female dog referred to as a “bitch?” In this brand-new blog post below, we’ll delve into three key reasons behind this terminology.

1. Etymology and Linguistic Evolution

The word “bitch” has a long origin and historical journey. Its origins can be traced back to Old English, where it was used to refer to a female dog. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, the Old English word “bicce” or “bicge” (dating back to approximately 1000 CE) eventually evolved into “bitch” in Middle English and retained its meaning of a female dog. However, over time, the term broadened in its application to refer to a female of various species, including humans. History indicates it may have been originally derived from the Old Norse word (i.e., the Vikings), “bikkja” also meaning “female dog.”

Interestingly, the word “bitch” wasn’t always associated exclusively with female dogs. In Middle English, it was used to describe both male and female dogs. However, as the English language developed, “bitch” became predominantly associated with female canines, while terms like “dog” or “hund” were used for male dogs. (Source: VetHelpDirect.com)

2. Cultural and Societal Perceptions

*Image by JackieLou DL from Pixabay.com*

The usage of “bitch” to describe a female dog reflects broader societal attitudes towards gender and sexuality. Historically, dogs, particularly female ones, were often associated with specific qualities such as:

Nurturing.
Loyalty, and
Protectiveness.

3. Standardization in Animal Terminology

In the realm of animal husbandry, veterinary medicine, and breeding, standardized terminology is essential for clear communication. Despite its colloquial and sometimes negative connotations, “bitch” has been adopted as the standard term to refer to female dogs in professional settings. (Source: BasePaws.com)

This standardization facilitates clarity and precision in discussions related to canine health, reproduction, and genetics. While alternative terms like “female dog” or “dam” also exist, “bitch” remains widely recognized and used within professional circles.

Female Dog: Alternative Terminology

Due to this often-controversial term, alternative terminology has been created to refer to the female dog without using the offensive term bitch like these more “respectable” terms.

Female Dog.
Lady Dog.
Queen.
Dame.
Fido-ess.

In Conclusion

The term “bitch” carries a complex history and significance even in its application to female dogs. Its evolution from Old English roots, coupled with cultural and societal perceptions, has shaped its current usage.

While the term may carry negative connotations in some contexts, it remains a standard part of animal terminology. Understanding the origins and implications of this term provides valuable insight into the intricacies of language and society. As language evolves, it’s essential to approach such terms with awareness and sensitivity, recognizing their historical context and impact.

No matter what you call your female dog, always keep them happy with plenty of grooming and healthy treats like this easy dog treat from DamnDelicious.net with spinach, carrot and zucchini, guaranteed to have your dog begging for more!

Equigroomer EasyGroomer and WaterWisk Tools — Images Courtesy: Equigroomer.com

Keep your dog’s coat shiny and healthy with our easy-to-use EasyGroomer and WaterWisk products! Homemade treats and comfortable grooming tools create a wonderful opportunity to bond with your best friend!