Lawn pesticides and dogs: What should you know?

Most people love the look of vibrant and lush grass covering their lawn.

When it comes to lawn pesticides and dogs, it can be challenging to maintain that gorgeous yard without risking the health of our beloved pets.

Well, you don’t have to compromise the health and safety of your dog to have a great lawn. Read on to discover what you need to know about using pesticides as a dog owner.

What pesticides are used?

Pesticide is a broad term for any chemical or natural substance used to kill or repel pests. There are many types of pests. Thus there are many types of pesticides.

These include:

• Herbicides used for plants and weeds. Examples include desiccants and plant growth regulators.
• Insecticides kill or repel insects. Typical insecticides are foggers, repellents, ovicides, and insect growth regulators.
• Fungicides prevent mold and mildew from growing. Treated Seeds use fungicides to prevent fungus before planting the crop.
• Disinfectants and Antimicrobials kill germs such as viruses or bacteria.
• Rodenticides kill larger pests like rats and mice or even gophers.

Some pesticides considered to be safer options include biopesticides or organic pesticides.

Common pesticides used in almost every backyard

Homeowners often use more than one of these pesticides in their backyards.

Homeowners use insecticides and rodenticides around the exterior of their homes. This is to prevent pests from getting inside. They also use both fungicides and herbicides across their lawns.

Americans use almost 80 million pounds of pesticides on their lawns every year. A selective herbicide 2, 4-D is one of the most common types used. This specific pesticide uses an active ingredient known as “Agent Orange.” This ingredient can result in numerous severe health risks, including causing cancer.

These pesticides are unsafe for humans. Dogs are even more susceptible to the harmful effects of these chemicals.

How can you protect your dog from pesticides?

You can do things to help protect your furry friends from pesticides.

Try these options:

• Manually remove weeds from your yard to reduce the pesticides needed.
• Use natural or organic pesticides that are more pet friendly.
• Move pets plus their food, water, bedding, and toys away from the treated area.
• Keep your dog away from the lawn, or other treated areas, for some time.
• Watch your dogs and ensure they don’t eat rodents or insects treated with pesticides.
• While outside, avoid letting dogs walk directly on your lawn or neighboring lawns.
• Keep containers of pesticides in a safe place that is out of reach for your dog.

Are all pesticides harmful to dogs?

All commercially made pesticides are harmful to dogs. However, some are more harmful than others. Organic or homemade pesticides are sometimes safer to use around dogs.

Most pesticides are a skin irritant to dogs and can even result in rashes or chemical burns. Pesticide poisoning occurs when the dog has either inhaled or ingested a pesticide.

Common pesticide ingredients that are a danger to dogs are metaldehyde and disulfoton. These are incredibly dangerous if ingested and can be fatal.

What are the benefits of pesticides?

Although pesticides pose a health risk to humans and dogs, people continue to use them. That’s because using them appropriately can be beneficial to your home and yard. 

Here are some common reasons to use pesticides:

• Prevent insects and rodents from spreading disease.
• Protect plant life and gardens from harmful infections, conditions, and pests.
• Improve crop quality as well as reduce the number of crops lost.
• Protect the structural integrity of homes by preventing damage from insects such as termites, beetles, and ants.

Using pesticides can be necessary at times. However, it is best to use pesticides only when needed and not in excess.

Pesticide dangers for dogs

The excessive use of pesticides still poses a severe health risk to dogs. Some factors that increase the risk of health issues are the type, amount, and frequency of pesticides used.

Some of the possible effects are:

• Damage to the central nervous system and major organs such as the heart and liver.
• Increased risk of canine malignant lymphoma from exposure to 2, 4-D herbicide.
• Seizures and respiratory arrest result from insecticides such as methomyl and carbofuran.
• Muscle twitching, weakness, and severe weight loss from pesticides using organophosphate.

Pesticide poisoning systems

It’s essential to know the signs of pesticide poisoning. Being aware of these symptoms can save your dog’s life.

Common symptoms:

• Vomiting
• Drooling
• Rapid breathing or respiratory failure
• Lethargy
• Diarrhea
• Confusion or distress
• Excessive drinking 
• Rashes or chemical burns on the skin
• Seizures or tremors
• Collapse

What to do if you spot pesticide poisoning symptoms?

If your dog inhales or ingests a pesticide, or you notice symptoms of pesticide poisoning, seek medical help immediately.

Never ignore the symptoms or try to treat your dog on your own. Pesticide poisoning is very dangerous, and you could risk your dog’s life.

Take your dog to a vet clinic as soon as you can. Disclose any exposure to pesticides and the type of pesticide. Also, describe the symptoms your dog displayed. The veterinarian will perform any necessary tests, make a proper diagnosis, and begin treatment.

Should you stop using pesticides to protect your dog?

Chemical pesticide use should be limited or discontinued if possible. If using pesticides is necessary for your home or garden, you can still find ways to make it safer for pets. Use some of the tips already mentioned, like removing weeds by hand or reducing the frequency of use.

A great alternative is to use natural ingredients and make pet-friendly weed killers. Many ingredients used for homemade pesticides are effective and safe for dogs.

Keep your dog safe from pesticides  

Utilize the tips and information in this article to keep your dog safe while keeping your lawn beautiful. The issue of lawn pesticides and dogs doesn’t need to be stressful. Primarily when you use pesticides with natural ingredients, always use them in moderation and with care.