Most of us (and our dogs) love summer and the chance to be outside and to travel both locally and across the country.

With that, however, Louise Louis of www.ToyBreeds.com reminds dog owners that we need to be aware of potential dangers to our canine companions in unfamiliar areas.

The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) has identified five common plants as being the most dangerous to dogs.

1. Lilies These are No. 1 on the Most Dangerous List and about 45% of the calls to the ASPCA poison hotline concern ingestion of these flowers.

Lilies are common in gardens and floral bouquets but even a small amount eaten by a dog can cause kidney damage. Lilies are even more dangerous to cats.

2. Azaleas These are found in the woods and mountain regions on both coasts. Severe azalea poisoning can lead to coma and death. Even smaller amounts can cause vomiting, drooling, diarrhea, weakness and central nervous system depression.

3. Oleanders This is a common landscaping plant. Unfortunately, every part of it is toxic. Symptoms of oleander poisoning include abdominal distress, hypothermia, and stomach distress. It can be fatal.

4. Sago palms These ornamental plants are popular in the South. All parts of this palm are poisonous, however, but the seeds are the most toxic. Ingestion can produce vomiting, diarrhea, depression, seizure and liver failure.

b>5. Castor beans Another popular ornamental plant in the south. The seeds, leaves and steam of the plant contain ricin (remember the poison attack on Japanese subway) and may produce abdominal pain, drooling, vomiting diarrhea, excessive thirst, weakness and appetite loss.

Please be aware of these plants and keep them out of your yard.

Should dog ingest any of these or other unknown plants contact the ASPCA poison hotline 24 hours a day, 365 days a year at (888) 426-4435.

A $50 consultation fee may be charged to your credit card.