JohnZappulla

LOL
I recall during the 1950's, that 4 out of 5 Doctors recommended Lucky Strikes or was it Camel Cigarettes.
So your Doctor reference, Dr. Jim Hruskoi, are you a Doctor, PHD., or a MD?
Would you have recommended Lucky's?

My concern is that by advising the public to forget the risks and enjoy a rather bland plant, how many dogs have you sentenced to become ill, and perhaps die.

If you have a dog, why not do a test and feed it some leaves. Up to the test?

Words for the article: Regarding Chris McLaughlin, contributor, article trying to dispel the "old wives tale" of Poinsettia's not being deadly.

I am only referring to the claims regarding dogs. I do not know how correct it is regarding people

As far as her claims for dogs, here are a few words I associate with this article:
Incorrect
Dangerous
Ignorant
Irresponsible
Poor journalism
Liability for Fine Gardening

Let's go to the American Kennel Clubs official website. These articles are either written by, or reviewed and approved by some of the finest Veterinarians in the United States.

http://www.akc.org/public_education/holiday_safety.cfm Specifically states: "Holly, mistletoe and poinsettia plants are poisonous to dogs. Make sure they are kept in places your dog cannot reach."
Next...
http://www.akc.org/news/index.cfm?article_id=3390
Specifically States: "Consider using an artificial tree. Tree water and pine needles are harmful to dogs. Other holiday plants which are toxic to dogs are poinsettias, holly and mistletoe"
Next...
If you don't believe the AKC, how about another veterinarian run website: http://petcare.suite101.com/article.cfm/christmas_plants_toxic_to_pets Here the plant's toxic effects are in more detail:
"Poinsettia – The poinsettia is a popular and beautiful plant during the holiday season. These plants are usually not deadly when ingested. The plant has changed some through hybridization so the floral industry contends that these plants are not poisonous.

The poinsettia is listed as poisonous because the sap is an irritant. If any part of the plant is ingested by a dog, cat, rabbit, or other curious pet the animal may show signs of oral irritation by shaking its head, hyper-salivating, or pawing at the head and mouth. The plant my also cause vomiting.

Treatment – Wash the sap off immediately to stop further irritation. If the animal is vomiting or if the eyes appear inflamed then call your veterinarian. Medications may be needed to treat your pets eyes and/or to treat the GI tract."

So, take the EXPERTS advice and do not allow your dogs to come into contact and possibly ingest Poinsettia's.
Will Fine Gardening be paying for Vet bills and replacement costs of the pets that are sicken or killed with this flippant piece of poor writing.
John Zappulla
johnzappulla@msn.com