How to keep your dog safe during home pest control
Once you integrate a dog into your home, he becomes more like family and less like a pet. If this is the case, treat your dog the same way you would your children or other family members during pest control treatments; the same level of attention should be given to protecting your dog. Consider using pet-friendly pest control and take steps to protect your dog.
Because dogs use their noses to explore everything, they can quickly inhale, absorb, or ingest the pesticide.
Talk to the exterminator about how long the area will remain unsafe for pets after fumigation. In general, you’ll need to keep dogs away from treated areas for 12 to 48 hours.
Here are some tips to protect your dog during pet-friendly pest control treatments in your household:
Tell your exterminator
The number one step you should take is to notify the pest control service that you have a dog. Talk to your exterminator about the chemicals they will use.
If possible, choose pet-friendly pest control treatments. By talking with your exterminator, you can get suggestions on the best way to protect your dog.
Tip: Talking to the exterminator provides the best option to protect your dog.
Contain your dog
To keep your dog contained, you may want to train it to stay in the yard. If the pest problem requires full-house fumigation, keeping your pet contained may mean having him stay outside or at a neighbor’s for a day or two.
You may need a kennel or pet carrier to contain your dog. Alternatively, lock him up in one of your free spaces, such as a garage, basement, attic, or even a bedroom.
You must remember that dogs are naturally curious. The new sounds might draw your dog, and smells in their home may cause them to investigate who is there and what they are doing.
Tip: If it’s difficult to contain your dog, consider kenneling your dog or at least have him spend the day at doggy daycare.
Take care of your dog’s items
You may find a way to contain your dog, but that won’t help if its personal items are exposed to pest control chemicals.
Keep your dog’s bed, toys, and other items safe. Put them in a room that won’t be fumigated.
Consider putting away other essential items, such as your dog’s food and water bowls.
Tip: If by chance, one of the dog’s belongings is contaminated, make sure to clean it in hot, soapy water before letting your dog use it again.
Check with your vet
If you doubt what to do, talk to your veterinarian. There are some things unique to your dog that may require different attention.
Suppose your dog suffers from allergies or breathing issues. In that case, it’s essential to talk with your vet about the chemicals used in the fumigation process and any additional precautions you may need to take.
Tip: Ensure you keep your dog away from fumigated areas for 12 to 48 hours.
Read the label
Some people prefer to do the fumigation process themselves. If you choose this option, you need to take the same precautions to protect your dog as you would if you were using a professional exterminator.
Be sure to read the labels on the substances you use to treat your home, and take any precautions recommended to protect both children and pets.
Take your time and work from room to room so you can fully control pests throughout your home.
Tip: Wear protective clothing during fumigation, including a face mask and gloves.