Brunfelsia, often known as "Yesterday, Today, and Tomorrow," is a beautiful and common flowering shrub found in many Australian gardens. Many have been seen flowering right now on the Central Coast. However, for dog owners, this plant poses a severe and often underestimated threat. Alarmingly, the Australian Poisons Centre reports that the highest number of cases related to Brunfelsia poisoning in dogs originate from the NSW Central Coast, and many new pet owners in the area are unaware of its dangers or how to identify it.

Why Brunfelsia is So Dangerous for Dogs:

Every part of the Brunfelsia plant is toxic to dogs. The most dangerous components are the attractive seed pods, vibrant flowers, and tempting berries. Dogs are particularly drawn to these parts, with some even known to jump up to reach the pods and berries. Some of the toxic components include brunfelsamidine, hopeanine, and scopoletin.

Recognising the Symptoms of Brunfelsia Poisoning:

The initial signs of Brunfelsia poisoning can be subtle, often starting with what might appear to be a simple cough. However, these symptoms can quickly escalate, progressing to agitation, vocalisation, gastrointestinal signs, tremors, and rapidly developing into life-threatening seizures. If you suspect your dog has ingested any part of a Brunfelsia plant, immediate veterinary attention is crucial.

What to Do if Your Dog Ingests Brunfelsia:

Time is of the essence in cases of poisoning. If you witness your dog eating Brunfelsia or suspect they have, contact us at Avoca Drive Animal Hospital, 11 Avoca Drive Erina, 02 4365 1086 or the Animal Poisons Centre on 1300 869 738, or your nearest emergency vet immediately. Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Treatment typically includes GI decontamination, seizure control, and fluid therapy. Bring a sample of the plant with you if possible, as this can help with identification and treatment.

Prevention is Key:

The best way to protect your dog from Brunfelsia poisoning is to remove the plant from your garden if you have one, or ensure your dog does not have access to it. Familiarise yourself with the appearance of Brunfelsia so you can identify it in public spaces or at friends' homes. Educating yourself and sharing the information on our website with other pet owners in the community, especially those new to the Central Coast, is vital in preventing these tragic incidents.

By understanding the risks and taking proactive steps, we can work together to keep our beloved canine companions safe from this garden danger.