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By zp7op | Contributor
If you have pets that love to be outdoors, ensuring your yard is safe for them is essential.
Consider these dangers that could affect the health of your beloved animals.
Toxic Plants – Numerous common plants can be harmful to pets, potentially leading to issues ranging from minor oral irritations and stomach upsets to serious cardiovascular problems and, in some cases, death. Here are some plants identified by the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) as unsafe for cats or dogs:
- Aloe – may cause vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, anorexia, and depression
- Azalea – can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, excess salivation, weakness, coma, cardiovascular collapse, and death
- Burning bush – can result in vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, and weakness, along with heart rhythm irregularities in large amounts
- Caladium – may induce burning and irritation of the mouth, tongue, and lips, excessive drooling, vomiting, and difficulty swallowing
- Daylilies – can cause kidney failure in cats
- Hibiscus – can lead to vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, and loss of appetite
Mulch and Compost – According to the National Garden Society, the substances that make compost beneficial can be harmful to pets. Store compost in a secure container or an enclosed area to prevent pets from accessing it. Cocoa mulch, derived from chocolate production, can be particularly dangerous for dogs, potentially causing digestive issues and seizures. A safer option is shredded pine or cedar mulch.
Fertilizer and Insecticides – The chemicals used for pest control and to keep lawns lush can be detrimental to pets. Some hazardous pesticides include snail bait containing metaldehyde, fly bait with methomyl, systemic insecticides with disyston or disulfoton, mole or gopher bait with zinc phosphide, and most rat poison types, according to the ASPCA. Always adhere to the provided instructions and keep pesticides and fertilizers stored securely, out of reach of animals.
Fleas and Ticks – In addition to utilizing proper flea and tick prevention strategies like collars and sprays, ensure your yard is not an inviting environment for these pests. Keep the grass trimmed and remove brush and debris, as these areas can harbor fleas and ticks. Fleas can lead to hair loss, scabs, excessive scratching, tapeworms, and anemia. Ticks pose similar risks and can also expose you and your family to illnesses such as Rocky Mountain spotted fever and Lyme disease.
