Living Stones Are Not Toxic To Dogs 🐢

Lithops bromfieldii

By Kiersten Rankel

Jun 18, 20243 min read

Ease your mind with Living Stones, the dog-friendly plant that keeps tails wagging and homes stylish. πŸ•πŸŒΏ

Living stones
  1. 🐢 Living Stones are safe for dogs, no harmful chemicals.
  2. Gastrointestinal upset possible if a dog chews on them.
  3. Elevate plants, add stones to deter curious canines.

What's the Deal with Living Stones and Dogs?

🐢 Are Living Stones Poisonous?

Diving right in: Living Stones are not toxic to dogs. These quirky succulents, known for their rock-like appearance, lack the harmful chemicals that spell trouble for canines. You won't find saponins or linalool hereβ€”common culprits in plant toxicity. So, if your dog has a penchant for greens, Living Stones won't add to your list of worries.

🦴 What Happens if a Dog Chews on Living Stones?

Now, just because Living Stones aren't poisonous doesn't mean they're a doggy delicacy. If your pup decides to take a nibble, they might experience some gastrointestinal upset. It's the plant equivalent of eating too much junk foodβ€”not deadly, but not exactly pleasant either. Keep an eye out for drooling or changes in appetite, which could signal your dog's stomach is in rebellion.

Lithops bromfieldii succulent in a small pot with visible soil, no flowers.

When Dogs Get Curious: Living Stones in Your Home

🐾 Keeping an Eye Out

Vigilance is non-negotiable when your dog's snout gets near your Living Stones. Keep an eye out for any signs of nibbling or undue interest. Regularly inspect the area for fallen leaves or debris that might tempt a taste test. Remember, while Lithops bromfieldii won't send your dog to the ER, it's still not a recommended snack.

🐢 Dog-Proofing Your Plant Setup

Elevation is your friend. Place Living Stones on high shelves or in hanging baskets, well beyond the leap of even the most athletic dogs. If your furry friend is a digger, consider adding landscaping stones on top of the soil. It's a decorative deterrent. And for those dogs that think they're escape artists, non-toxic artificial plants might be the way to goβ€”same visual appeal, zero risk.

Lithops bromfieldii plant in a terracotta pot with rocky soil and a large rock.

Vet's Corner: What the Pros Say About Living Stones

🐾 Professional Insights

Veterinarians generally give Living Stones a green light for dog-friendly homes. These quirky succulents, which mimic the appearance of stones, lack the toxic compounds that make other plants risky for pets. That said, vets stress the importance of vigilance. Even non-toxic plants can cause mild stomach upset if ingested in large quantities.

🚨 When to Call the Vet

If your dog decides to taste-test your Living Stones, keep an eye out for gastrointestinal distressβ€”symptoms like vomiting or diarrhea. While serious issues are unlikely, it's better to be safe and consult your vet if you notice any concerning changes in your pet's behavior. Always have the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center number (888) 426-4435 on hand, just in case.

Lithops bromfieldii plant in a small pot with visible soil, well-framed and in focus.

Stories from the Dog Park: Owners' Tales

🌡 Pooch and Pebble: A Safe Coexistence

Dog owners with Living Stones in their homes share a common narrative: vigilance and preparation create harmony. One owner recounts how their Beagle, known for its inquisitive nose, never disturbed the succulents thanks to a high shelf display. Another tells of a Labrador whose digging habits were curbed by placing decorative stones around the plants, a tip gleaned from moonstone plant care.

πŸ“š Lessons Learned

The collective wisdom is clear: size matters. A small nibble for a large dog may still be a feast for a smaller breed. Owners emphasize the importance of sturdy pots and strategic placement to prevent toppling or consumption. The anecdotes converge on a single point: with responsible ownership, Living Stones and dogs can indeed coexist safely.

Ensure your Living Stones flourish πŸͺ΄ and your dogs stay safe by using Greg to remind you about strategic plant placement and care tips!