Spring Is In The Air… Let’s Prepare!

How to Keep Your Pets Safe from Fertilizer This Spring

Spring is here, and it’s time to give your lawn the love it deserves! But as you break out the fertilizer, it’s important to remember that your pets—whether they’re curious dogs, playful cats, or anything in between—might be at risk. Fertilizers can be harmful to animals if ingested or if they come into contact with their skin, so it’s essential to take a few precautions to keep them safe. Here’s what you need to know:

Go Pet-Safe with Your Fertilizer

If you’ve got furry friends running around, consider switching to pet-safe or organic fertilizers. These are generally free from harsh chemicals like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which can be toxic to pets. Look for options that specifically mention they’re safe for animals.

Keep Pets Indoors After Fertilizing

After applying fertilizer, it’s best to keep your pets indoors for at least 24-48 hours. This gives the fertilizer time to settle into the soil and reduces the chances of your pets ingesting or coming into contact with it.

Water Your Lawn

Once you’ve spread the fertilizer, give your lawn a good watering. This helps the fertilizer dissolve into the soil and reduces the chance of it being on the surface where your pets could walk on it.

Avoid Direct Contact with Fertilized Areas

If you have an active dog or a cat that loves to roll in the grass, try to keep them away from freshly treated areas. Fertilizer can stick to their paws, fur, or skin, and they might accidentally ingest it when licking themselves clean.

Always Read the Labels

Before buying any fertilizer, take a look at the label to make sure it’s safe for pets. Some fertilizers contain ingredients that can be more dangerous than others, so it’s worth reading up before you make your purchase.

Use Barriers to Keep Pets Away

If your pets are particularly curious (or prone to digging), consider putting up temporary barriers or fencing around fertilized areas to prevent them from getting too close.

Clean Those Paws

If your pets do venture onto a recently treated lawn, be sure to wipe their paws off when they come inside. Fertilizer can stick to their paws, and if they lick them, they might ingest harmful chemicals.

Be Mindful on Walks

Spring also means it’s prime time for walks and outdoor adventures. When you’re out and about, be mindful of where your dog is walking. Fertilizer can often be found on public lawns, parks, or even sidewalks, so keep your pet on the path and avoid grassy areas that may have recently been treated. It’s a good idea to rinse your pet’s paws after a walk if they’ve been in areas where fertilizer could be present.

Know the Symptoms of Poisoning

Even if you take all the precautions, it’s still important to know the signs of fertilizer poisoning. Symptoms can include drooling, vomiting, diarrhea, or general lethargy. If your pet shows any of these symptoms, contact your vet right away.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your pets safe and still enjoy a lush, green yard this spring. Just a little extra care can make all the difference in keeping your furry friends happy and healthy as the season changes!

Stay safe, and happy gardening! 🌱🐾