Tragic Pet Death Prompts Dunedin Residents To Learn More About Plants

DUNEDIN, FL — A heartbreaking story posted on Dunedin Patch on March 16 by resident Elizabeth White about her beloved beagle who died after eating seeds from a toxic cardboard plant in her yard has prompted the Dunedin Public Library, 223 Douglas Ave., Dunedin, to host a program, "Toxic Plants and Your Pets," on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at 6 p.m.

Veterinarian Tracy Morris of Coastal Veterinary Care in Dunedin and Theresa Badurek, an urban horticulture agent with the UF/IFAS Extension in Pinellas County will discuss commonly used landscape plants that are extremely toxic, how to identify toxic poisoning in a pet and what to do if you see signs of poisoning.

On January 27, White's 6 1/2-year-old beagle, JoJo, became critically ill after ingesting the toxic seeds of the cardboard plant.

The cardboard plant is one of three common cycads that are popular for landscaping. The other two being sago and coontie.

Until then, White said she had no idea the plant was potentially deadly to pets and children.

"(JoJo) spent six days in the ER with a hopeful vet who would not give up but could not save JoJo from the ravaging effects of the horrible plant toxins," White said.
"JoJo was in the prime of her life and was the sweetest, happiest dog I've ever had. Her sudden, tragic and preventable death left me stunned and devastated."

The ASPCA has published a list of toxic plants for dogs, cats and horses, many of which homeowners plant in their yards without a second thought, including asparagus fern, American holly, amaryllis, Swedish ivy, thyme, sunflowers, rosemary, red maple, plumbago and peacock plants.

The program sponsored by the Dunedin Friend of the Library is free.