Wandering Jew

What it looks like:

The leaves of the Wandering Jew are oval, smooth, shiny, fleshy and have pointy tips. It is dark green, and found on the undergrowth on riverbanks, coastal areas and forests, spreading quickly to a carpet of 50cm thick. Growing in moist, damp and warm environment. During spring to summer, three petalled white flowers are produced.

 

Signs:

Allergic Dermatitis of sparsely haired areas when coming into contact with the plant. Red, itchy skin produced most commonly under stomach, groin area or between toes.

Treatment:
If the irritation is small, you can try one of our itch relieving products to soothe the skin.

Contact your local vet if the affected area is severe, as your pet will require medication to control itchiness and prevent secondary skin infections from scratching.

Sea Slugs

What it looks like:

Grey, side-gilled, slimy, slippery, found on beaches, usually North Shore and the Coromandel Area. Producing a toxin known as Tetrotoxin, which is also found in pufferfish, this can be fatal if it comes in contact with your dog. Also, slug eggs produce toxins too, so always supervise your dog at the beach, as consuming these eggs will be fatal. Egg sacs of these seas slugs are toothpaste like, opaque in colour with white flecks and tend to stick to shells and seaweed.

Signs

Colour change in gums
Vomiting
Quivering
Seizures
Diarrhoea
Involuntary muscle contraction
Involuntary eye movement

Slug/Snail Bait

What it looks like:

Slug/snail bait looks like white/grey pellets, resembling some dog foods, which means it caneasily attract dogs. Usually found sprinkled onto garden beds and boxes left outside or in the shed.

Slug Bait is extremely dangerous and can be fatal. Signs of poisoning occurs quickly. Liver failure may occur 2-3 days after poisoning.

Signs:

Rapid Heart Rate

Salivation

Anxiety

Vomiting

Diarrhoea

Panting

Incoordination

Twitching

Seizures

Treatment:

If your dog shows signs of consuming slug bait, consult a veterinarian immediately. Treatment includes induced vomiting, intravenous fluids, medications to decrease seizures and flushing out the poison during anaesthesia.

Toxic Algae

What it Looks Like:

Toxic Algae (Cyanobacteria) generally forms brown/black mats that grow on rocks in river beds. These mats come loose and washes up on riverbanks or floating rafts in shallow places. The mats also dry out during exposure, turning to light brown/white in colour. Toxic Algae also produces a strong musty smell.

Toxic Algae is widely found in rivers and lakes throughout New Zealand. Forming toxic flowers, it is highly toxic to both animals and humans. Being exposed to high levels of toxic algae can be fatal, resulting in serious illness or death. Dogs are susceptible to poisoning from toxic algae due to scavenging and playing near water. It is important to avoid contact from toxic algae.

Signs:

Lethargy

Muscle tremors

Fast Breathing

Twitching

Paralysis

Convulsions

If your dog has consumed toxic algae, it is an emergency and you should consult your veterinarian immediately. Death can occur within half an hour after the first signs appear, depending on how much they have consumed.

 

Karaka Berries

What it looks like:
During the months between January and April, green berries from Karaka Trees turn orange. It is oval in shape and grows in bunches.  

The berries are extremely toxic to dogs and remains toxic for a long time after they fall from the tree.

Signs of poisoning are usually delayed by 24 to 48 hours, but if not treated in time, can be fatal.

Signs to watch out for:

Vomiting

Weakness

Paralysis of back legs

Convulsions

Confusion

If you witness your dog eating Karaka Berries, contact your vet immediately.