Dog owners have been urged to keep their eyes peeled for a potentially harmful plant when out on walks this summer.
Giant hogweed is a highly invasive plant which can be found in many grassy or overgrown areas like parks or even gardens, although it is most commonly found near watercourses and in damp meadows. Chemicals in the plant's sap can cause the skin to become over-sensitive to sunlight, which may lead to blistering, burning and long-lasting scars, according to the RHS - meaning it poses a serious health risk to both humans and animals.
The toxic sap can be found in the plant's stems, leaves, flowers and roots, therefore anyone who accidentally touches it could be at risk, while it has the potential to cause even more damage to any pet who licks or chews it. Giant hogweed blooms in June and July, meaning that dogs and their owners are most likely to come into contact with it over the next few weeks, WalesOnline reports.
