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My dog ate flower petals and has diarrhea. Should I go to the vet?

Updated on September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Dog | Mixed Breed Small (up to 22lb) | Male | unneutered | 10 months and 11 days old | 6.5 lbs

We have a Rose of Sharon bush in our backyard and my dog ate some of the fallen petals before I could stop him. Since then (about a day & a half) he has been having watery yellowish diarrhea. I read about this and withholding food and keeping my dog hydrated was recommended until this passes, but I'm wondering if this is something for which I should bring him to the vet. Thoughts?

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Answered By Ricardo Fernandez, DVM

Veterinarian, Veterinary Oncology Resident

Published on July 26th, 2018

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Diarrhea can be observed with conditions such as colitis, gastroenteritis, dietary indiscretion, intestinal parasites, among many other possibilities. In this case, dietary indiscretion is possible given that petals were ingested. Assuming the petals were not from a toxic flower, you could try a bland diet composed mainly of boiled chicken and white rice which is easily digestible and can help with an upset stomach. If no improvement is noted, I recommend that you have Moose evaluated by your veterinarian for further assessment and treatment. They may choose to check for parasites and to start medications for diarrhea depending on the results. If there is concern that these petals were from a toxic flower/plant, he should be evaluated right away. Good luck! Hoping for a speedy recovery!
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