Is the Lucifer Plant Toxic to Dogs?

Symptoms

• General plant poisoning symptoms may include vomiting, diarrhea, trouble breathing, weakness and excessive salivation. Changes in urination, such as going too much or too little, may also be a sign of poisoning. If you notice any of these symptoms, whether your dog has ingested part of the Lucifer plant or not, contact your local veterinarian or call the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals at 1-888-426-4435. The ASPCA may charge a consultation fee.

Prevention

• A dog who is regularly ingesting unknown plants may be trying to make up for a lack of fiber in its diet. Cornell University recommends adding bran flakes to your dog's food or changing your dog's diet to one higher in vegetable fiber to see if that helps curb this undesirable habit. Whenever possible, prevent your dog from eating garden plants. Outdoors or indoors, never plant anything that is known to be poisonous to dogs.

Considerations

• Lucifer is generally avoided by slugs, a big plus as many slug baits contain Metaldehyde, an ingredient that is highly poisonous to dogs. In pellet form, Metaldehyde is especially attractive to dogs. Symptoms of poisoning include anxiety, panting, excessive panting, vomiting, diarrhea and tremors. More serious symptoms can include respiratory failure, coma and death. There is no antidote for Metaldehyde poisoning: the sooner you seek medical attention, the better the chances are of your dog surviving.

Culture

• Lucifer may be grown in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 to 9 in full or partial sunlight. Space plants 6 to 8 inches apart in a well draining, moist soil. In the cooler end of the plant's range, dig up corms in the fall and store throughout the winter in a cool, dry place safely out of reach from your dog. Corms may be planted again in the spring. Flowers may be clipped and used in fresh flower bouquets.