If possible, take a portion of the cardinal flower with you to the veterinarian to help in getting a definitive diagnosis. The veterinarian will give your dog a thorough physical examination, including coat condition, oxygen levels, weight, reflexes, heart rate, body temperature, breath sounds, blood pressure, and respiration rate. Tell them all the details about the incident, such as how much you think your dog ingested and how long you believe your dog was eating the cardinal flower. The veterinarian will also need to know your dog’s medical history, vaccination records, unusual behavior, or appetite changes.
Some laboratory tests are needed which include a urinalysis, chemical profile, complete blood count, blood urea nitrogen (BUN), glucose and electrolyte levels. The results of the chemical profile of your dog would have detectable levels of alkaloids, decreased α-D-mannosidase activity, and increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST). A packed cell volume (PCV) is helpful in determining if your dog is dehydrated. Sometimes, an electrocardiogram (ECG) is performed to measure the electrical performance of your dog’s heart. Imaging done with x-ray, MRI, ultrasound, and a CT scan may also be necessary.
