Pet owners warned over toxic plant

Pet owners warned over toxic plant

Pet owners have been issued with a warning after a toxic plant left an animal with serious facial burns and injuries.

Giant Hogweed is considered to be one of the most dangerous plants in the UK for people and dogs.

Several owners have reported similar incidents and are urging people to keep their pets away from the plant.

Although it is not native to the UK, it now grows in fields and hedgerows across the nation.

Once fully grown the plant can reach heights of between 1.5 to five metres, and have a spread of between one and two metres.

According to the Woodland Trust, the sap of the plant can cause burns to dogs and people when it comes into contact with skin.

The best way to avoid injury is to familiarise yourself with the plant in order to identify it.

The trust advises against brushing through patches of giant hogweed and exposing yourself to plants which have been cut which might cause you to get sap on your skin.

If you are affected, be sure to wash the area thoroughly immediately, seek medical advice, and do not expose the area to sunlight for a few days.

If left untreated blistering can last several years.

If you suspect your pet has come into contact with the plant, you are advised to seek assistance from your vet as soon as possible.