Boynton Beach Dog Undergoes Surgery After Eating Plant
A one-year-old Chihuahua mix required emergency intervention in late August after ingesting a piece of cardboard palm.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Pet Health
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In late August 2026, a one-year-old Chihuahua mix underwent emergency surgery at a Boynton Beach veterinary hospital to remove a two to three inch obstruction. The dog had ingested a piece of a Zamia furfuracea, also known as a cardboard palm, which became lodged in its small intestine.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the serious risks posed to pets by toxic ornamental plants found in Florida. Ingesting Zamia species can cause severe gastrointestinal illness and liver damage, while related plants like sago palms are known to cause extreme poisoning.
The Chihuahua mix, aged one year, had a two to three inch piece of a cardboard palm lodged in its small intestine. The object was identified as a structure from a Zamia furfuracea plant.
The players
VEG ER for Pets
This veterinary organization operates emergency hospitals across South Florida including facilities in Boynton Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Pinecrest, and Pembroke Pines.
The details
After the dog displayed symptoms including lethargy and vomiting, a veterinary ultrasonographer was called in to perform an ultrasound. A veterinarian then successfully completed the surgery to remove the plant material that had caused the blockage.
Timeline
The dog ingested the plant material in late August 2026.
This report was published on October 20, 2026.
VEG is expected to open a new location in Boca Raton in 2027.
Culture Shift
This incident reflects the growing trend of pet owners navigating the risks posed by exotic ornamental plants in residential gardens. It aligns with documented warnings from the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's toxic plant list regarding the dangers of ingestion.
Pet owners in the area should conduct an audit of their yards and homes to identify and remove potentially toxic plants like cardboard palms or sago palms. Maintaining a list of emergency veterinary contacts is essential for rapid response if a pet shows signs of distress like vomiting or lethargy.
The takeaway
Pet owners should prioritize the removal of known toxic flora from their living spaces to prevent accidental ingestion. If a pet displays signs of gastrointestinal distress, seeking immediate professional veterinary care is critical to avoiding long-term complications.
What happens next
VEG ER for Pets is scheduled to expand its regional footprint with a new location in Boca Raton, expected to open in 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about identifying hazardous household items in our Pet Health guide.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Boca Raton Tribune.
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