Poinciana Poisoning in Dogs

The Poinciana tree is a vivid, flowering tree also known as Delonix regia. It is adorned with leaves that have the appearance of fern greenery and has flowers of red and orange hues. It belongs to the family Fabaceae and is grown in many parts of the world, namely warmer climates. 

This ornamental tree is often called the Royal Poinciana and can grow anywhere where the weather is warm. It reaches anywhere between eight and twenty feet in height. In addition to the flowers, it is adorned with brownish-like pods which make a specific rattling sound on windy days. Many warmer communities plant this beautiful tree, as it makes a nice accent when paired with other foliage. Native to the country Madagascar, this colorful tree is a pretty ornamental addition to the yard and stands out from the rest because of the brilliant color.

Although not a plant that dogs are attracted to, the Poinciana, if consumed can cause mild illness and discomfort in dogs.

The Poinciana is also commonly called the Flamboyant. Dogs are not drawn to eat the leaves, seedpods or flowers, but if you have a curious canine, they may ingest the plant and exhibit the following symptoms:

• Drooling
• Pawing at the mouth
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea

Types

The scientific name for Poinciana is Delonix regia. Alternate names include:

• Flamboyant Tree
• Flame Tree
• Royal Poinciana

The toxicity level of the Poinciana is considered to be mild. The leaves, flowers, bark, and seedpods all have historical medicinal purposes, although its use is not well documented, nor commonplace. If your dog consumes the leaves, their stomach may become upset due to the strain on the digestive system to process the unfamiliar greenery. Your dog may vomit as a result. 

The properties of the flowers, leaves, seedpods, and bark (such as essential oils, gums, flavonoids, and saponins, for example) are foreign to your pup's system and may cause vomiting and diarrhea.

If your companion has consumed a large amount of the Poinciana, nausea, and vomiting may be the result. Diarrhea can occur as well. If the two symptoms persist, take your dog to the veterinarian. Dehydration is a concern if your dog is vomiting consistently and not drinking. Bring along a portion of your pet's vomit as well as a sample of the tree.

The vet will examine your dog, listening for their heart rate and pulse. They will examine your dog's mouth for signs of irritation. Their hydration status will also be evaluated.

Treatment methods may include:

Intravenous Fluids

The veterinarian may give IV fluids to help stabilize your dog; the solution may include nitrates and electrolytes. IV fluids are beneficial to prevent or fix any dehydration and to promote urination via the kidneys.

Medication

If your pooch is vomiting consistently, antiemetics may be prescribed to stop the nausea, allowing your dog to drink water and rehydrate.

If the illness is mild to moderate, your dog will be able to return home the same day. Dogs that are severely hydrated will spend the night in the clinic hospital for continued IV therapy and observation. 

Upon release from the clinic, your veterinarian will likely suggest a special diet for your dog, at least temporarily. Follow the vet's directions. This diet may be a bland regimen such as boiled chicken and rice as recommended by your veterinarian, or a prescription diet. For future prevention, take note of the plants and trees in and around your home to be sure none of them are toxic. If you have any toxic trees left on your property, be sure to always monitor your dog when they are outside.