With the arrival of Spring, many of us will be out in the yard and our dogs will join us. Gardening can be a hazardous occupation for dogs - in more ways than one. Dogs with a digging fetish are likely to dig up plants and play with them or chew on them. Many plants are toxic to pets, and some are so potent as to be fatal if ingested (hyacinth and tulip bulbs, for example).

Ingestion of bird droppings can cause seizures, coma or death, especially if consumed in a water base (such as a bird bath).

Don't overlook the compost heap. Adequately contain the material so the dog cannot get at plant trimmings or kitchen leftovers.

If you discover your dog chewing on a plant, don't wait for symptoms to develop. Immediately take the dog - along with whatever is left of the plant - to your veterinarian. Plant identification is vital for proper treatment.

Cocoa mulch which is sold by many home and garden centers contains theobromine, the same toxic to dogs chemical which is in chocolate. Cocoa mulch smells like chocolate and it will attract your dog. Don't take chances -- use a different kind of mulch. If you have a gardener, instruct him/her not to use cocoa mulch.