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Mountain laurel toxicosis in a dog
Ingrid O Manhart1, Camille DeClementi, Christine L Guenther
1Department of Emergency and Critical Care, Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center, Pittsburgh, PA 15237, USA. Ingrid.Manhart@vcahospitals.com
Summary
This case report details a dog that recovered from mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) toxicosis. Prompt identification and supportive care were key to the successful outcome of this poisoning.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Toxicology
- Canine Medicine
Background:
- Mountain laurel (Kalmia latifolia) is a toxic plant for domestic animals.
- Ingestion can lead to significant gastrointestinal and cardiovascular signs.
Observation:
- A dog presented with severe vomiting, hematochezia, bradycardia, weakness, and ataxia.
- Initial supportive treatments were ineffective.
Findings:
- Gastrotomy revealed mountain laurel in the stomach, confirming toxicosis.
- Continued supportive care led to a complete recovery.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering plant toxicosis in dogs with compatible clinical signs.
- Successful management strategies for mountain laurel toxicosis are presented.
- This report adds to the veterinary literature on Kalmia latifolia poisoning in dogs.
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