Summer is just around the corner. It’s a time of year when people, and pets, spend more time outside. There is nothing like relaxing on the back porch listening to the hum of the cicadas, but if you have certain types of trees on your property, you should be aware of the dangers they can present to some pets. You may need to have them trimmed, cut, or removed entirely.
Below is a list of trees found in Tulsa that can be dangerous to pets, but it is not all-inclusive.
* This article is intended to provide general information only. Please contact your local Certified Arborist or nursery for more information on specific trees and/or species. Nothing in this article should be construed as advice or a recommended course of action.
While gorgeous to look at, the beauty of the mimosa tree is only skin-deep. The blossoms, feathery and fluffy, look like cotton candy and have an intoxicating scent.
Hey fellow pet parents! If you’re like me and have both a lovely garden with fruit trees and furry friends running around, you’ve probably wondered about the safety of pear trees for your dogs. As someone who’s done extensive research on this topic (because my pup literally tries to eat everything in sight!) I’m here to share what I’ve learned about pear trees and dog safety.
The Quick Answer
Good news! Pear trees are generally not toxic to dogs. The flesh of ripe pears is actually safe and can be a yummy treat for your furry friend. However there are some parts of the tree you should watch out for – but don’t worry, we’ll get into all that detail below!
What Parts of Pear Trees Are Safe vs. Dangerous?
Let’s break this down into simple parts
Safe Parts:
- Ripe pear flesh
- Tree bark (though we don’t recommend letting your dog chew on it!)
Potentially Dangerous Parts:
- Seeds
- Contain cyanogenic compounds
- Can cause digestive issues if eaten in large quantities
- Leaves and Stems
- May cause stomach upset
- Could lead to irritation if ingested
- Fallen Fruit
- Rotting pears can cause tummy troubles
- Moldy fruit is definitely a no-no
Warning Signs to Watch For
If your curious pup has been munching on pear tree parts they shouldn’t, keep an eye out for these symptoms:
- Vomiting (the most common sign)
- Diarrhea
- Unusual lethargy
- Excessive drooling
- Tummy discomfort
- Changes in appetite
How to Keep Your Dog Safe Around Pear Trees
Here’s what we’ve found works best to keep our four-legged friends safe:
-
Clean Up Regularly
- Pick up fallen pears promptly
- Rake leaves when they fall
- Remove any dead branches
-
Create Barriers
- Consider fencing off the tree area
- Use temporary barriers during fruiting season
- Try the paprika spray trick (more on this below!)
-
Training Tips
- Teach “leave it” command
- Reward good behavior around the tree
- Supervise outdoor time
The Paprika Trick (A Cool Tip from Garden Experts!)
Here’s a neat trick I learned from an old gardening pro: Make a spray using water and Hungarian paprika! Just mix them together and spray around the tree area. Dogs typically don’t like the smell, and it’s completely safe for both your pup and the tree. Pretty neat, right?
FAQs About Pear Trees and Dogs
Q: Can my dog eat fresh pears from the tree?
A: Yes! Just remove the seeds and core first, and offer in moderation.
Q: What if my dog ate some pear tree leaves?
A: Don’t panic! A few leaves usually just cause mild tummy upset. But keep an eye out for symptoms and call your vet if you’re worried.
Q: Are some pear varieties safer than others?
A: All pear varieties have similar safety profiles for dogs. Whether it’s Bartlett, Bosc, or Asian pears, the same rules apply.
Tips for Pet-Friendly Gardening
If you’re planning your garden with your dog in mind, here are some alternatives and tips:
Dog-Friendly Tree Options:
- Cherry trees (without pits)
- Apple trees (remember to remove seeds)
- Maple trees
- Dogwood trees
Protection Tips for Young Trees:
- Install tree guards
- Use temporary fencing
- Apply pet-safe deterrent sprays
- Create designated play areas away from trees
What the Experts Say
Many veterinarians and certified arborists agree that pear trees aren’t a major concern for dog owners. As one expert puts it, “In the wild, canines naturally eat various fruits as part of their diet. The key is moderation and preventing access to potentially harmful parts.”
The Bottom Line
While pear trees aren’t toxic to dogs overall, it’s smart to take some basic precautions. Think of it like having chocolate in your house – you wouldn’t leave it where your dog could get it, right? Same principle here!
Remember:
- Ripe pear flesh =
- Seeds, stems, leaves =
- Regular cleanup = Essential
- When in doubt, call your vet!
My Personal Experience
I’ve got a golden retriever who thinks everything in our garden is his personal buffet. After installing some simple barriers around our pear tree and being diligent about cleanup, we’ve had zero issues. He still gets to enjoy the occasional pear treat (properly prepared, of course), and I get to keep my sanity!
For any fellow pet parents out there, just remember that a little prevention goes a long way. Keep an eye on your furry friends, maintain your yard, and everyone can enjoy the beauty of pear trees safely!
Stay pawsome!
Disclaimer: While we strive to provide accurate information, please consult with your veterinarian for specific advice about your pet’s health and safety.
Why are Boxwood trees poisonous to pets?
Surprisingly, the ubiquitous oak tree can present a danger to pets if they ingest the acorns from the tree.
Why are Oak trees dangerous to pets?
It is important to make sure that dogs do not ingest acorns from oak trees. They have a toxic element and the acorns themselves can cause obstruction.
The red maple is especially deadly for horses.
Red Maples are beautiful and popular trees throughout the United States however, their leaves have a hidden danger if ingested. They are especially dangerous for horses and livestock if you have them remove the tree for safety of your animals.