How to Treat Winterberry Shrub Poisoning

Winterberry shrub provides a reliable and aesthetically pleasing landscaping option, but it can be hazardous. Bright red berries ripening in late summer attract charming woodland creatures and numerous species of birds. However, the smooth, gray bark and shiny fruit of winterberry shrub poses a danger when eaten by children and pets. A little vigilance and caution assures that your winterberry shrubs remain an attractive part of the scenery without compromising safety.

Instructions

• 1

  Survey your landscape to identify the presence of winterberry shrub, which grows from 5 to 15 feet tall. Branches grow densely in a zigzag pattern, with small clusters of scarlet berries measuring about ¼ inch in diameter.

• 2

  Determine, if possible, the amount of fruit ingested if you suspect your cat, dog or child has eaten berries. Winterberry shrub berries contain theobromine, a caffeine-type alkaloid that in large doses can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and trigger seizures.

• 3

  Telephone your local poison control hotline, informing the operator that you suspect the victim has consumed winterberry shrub berries. Be prepared to travel to the closest emergency room or to your local veterinarian.

• 4

  Induce vomiting in the patient when advised by emergency personnel. Fortunately, theobromine poisoning is rarely fatal but must be treated seriously.