What is ivy?
Ivy (Epipremnum aureum) is a tropical climbing plant from the arum family. It has shiny, heart-shaped leaves that are spotted green, yellow or white, depending on the variety. It can grow up to 15 meters long and forms aerial roots with which it clings to walls or other plants. Ivy is also known as the money tree or lucky plant because it is said to attract wealth and luck.
What are the benefits of ivy for dogs?
Ivy has some benefits for dogs that you might not have expected. For one, it is a very good air purifier. It filters pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene or xylene out of the air and thus improves the indoor climate. This can be particularly helpful for dogs with respiratory problems or allergies.
What are the disadvantages of ivy for dogs?
Unfortunately, ivy also has some disadvantages for dogs that you should not ignore. Firstly, it is poisonous to dogs. It contains calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause irritation and swelling on contact with the mucous membrane. This can lead to symptoms such as salivation, vomiting, diarrhea or breathing difficulties. In the worst case, it can even lead to allergic shock or kidney failure. On the other hand, ivy can also lead to injuries or choking.
How can you safely keep ivy in your home?
If you want to keep ivy in your home, you should take some precautions to protect your dog. Here are some tips:
- Place the ivy in a high or inaccessible place where your dog can't reach it.
- Regularly cut off the long shoots or tie them together so that they don't hang down.
- Check the plant regularly for damage or signs of eating.
- Watch your dog when he is near the ivy.
- If you suspect that your dog has eaten the ivy or is showing symptoms, seek veterinary advice immediately.
