Wow! Time is sure fun when you're having flies! So sorry for the lack of entries!

 Cherries and lemons and apples, oh my! While spring and summer fruits are good for you, certain parts of these seasonal offerings can be potentially irritating—and in some situations, occasionally toxic—to companion animals.

According to our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC), the peels, fruit and seeds of citrus plants such as lemons, oranges, limes and grapefruits contain varying amounts of citric acid, limonin and volatile oils that can cause gastrointestinal irritation and result in vomiting and diarrhea. As for apples, cherries, peaches and apricots, their stems, leaves and seeds contain cyanogenic glycosides that have the potential to cause vomiting and loss of appetite—and in severe cases, weakness, difficulty breathing, hyperventilation, shock and even death.

“Typically, these severe effects develop from very large ingestions of plant material, more likely to occur with grazing animals such as horses or other livestock,” says the ASPCA’s Dana Farbman, CVT. “The consumption of a few segments of citrus fruit, an apple or two, or a few cherries would usually not be expected to cause serious problems beyond perhaps minor stomach upset. However, it is important for animal owners to be aware of the potential for problems that these fruit trees can produce.”

As a companion animal owner, it’s always a good idea to become familiar with different types of plants in and around the home—and make sure that potentially poisonous species are not accessible to your pets. For lists of both safe and potentially toxic plants, please visit the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center online.

DOG TIP

Daily brushing of your dog's teeth is the best safeguard against dental problems. Gradually introduce your pet to the new experience of having its mouth handled and teeth cleaned. Begin with your finger and a small amount of doggie toothpaste. Once your dog has acquired a taste for the paste, which usually takes 7-10 days, switch to a doggie toothbrush.

CAT TIP

Stressed-out Cats
Our pets are very attuned to our emotions and can become very anxious when we experience stress. Some typical times when your cat may need a little more reassurance or attention include moving into a new home, changes in your daily schedule, renovations, vacation, new additions to the household and family strife.