Giant Hogweed has been commanding some media headlines over the last few weeks, if you didn’t know Giant Hogweed is a close relative of Cow Parsley (you may know it as one or the other depending on where you come from) and is identified by it’s thick bristly stem and white upward facing flowers. Giant Hogweed can grow up to 10ft (3m) high which makes it easy to spot.
The reason it has gained media focus is down to its sap which can cause severe skin burns if exposed to sunlight shortly after exposure.
Essentially the chemicals in the Giant Hogweed sap can cause photodermatitis or photosensitivity, this is where the skin becomes very sensitive to sunlight causing symptoms identical to sunburn in a very short space of time
Whilst the media attention has focussed around people, dogs can suffer from Giant Hogweed if the sap comes into contact with skin, vulnerable areas are mostly around the nasal area.
As with humans, if you suspect your dog has brushed against Giant Hogweed, rinse the area thoroughly with water as soon as possible. Try to keep the dog out of sunlight until you have washed the sap off.
Local authorities are taking action into eliminating Giant Hogweed, so if you do notice any which walking your dog, contact your local council with the location and ideally a picture.
If you have Giant Hogweed in your garden, it is quite simple to remove but it is advised you wear skin protection and a mask. If possible, dig out the plant taking all roots. Never use a strimmer as this will send sap into the air. If digging isn’t an option, chemicals are effective at removing Giant Hogweed. Go for a systemic weedkiller based on glyphosate as these will kill both plant and roots.
Giant Hogweed tends to grow near water, so if using a chemical make sure the chemical doesn’t enter any water.
Have you come in to contact with Giant Hogweed, let us know in the comments below.
