Choosing the Best Pet Safe Lawn Fertiliser
When it comes to maintaining a vibrant and healthy lawn, many pet owners look for the best pet safe lawn fertiliser, as pets can unintentionally come into contact with harmful chemicals.
Pet-safe products are designed to provide essential nutrients to your grass while minimising potential risks to your beloved pets.
These fertilisers use organic or natural ingredients free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, and toxins.
They prioritise the well-being of both your pets and the environment.
When selecting lawn care products, there are several factors to consider.
Let's take a deep dive into what you should think about when choosing the right pet-friendly lawn care product!
Factors To Consider When Choosing Pet-Friendly Fertiliser
First and foremost, you should look for products explicitly labelled as "pet-safe" or "pet-friendly."
This ensures that the manufacturer has taken special care to formulate the fertiliser without harmful substances.
Additionally, consider the ingredients used in the fertiliser.
Opt for organic or natural options that utilise ingredients such as compost, seaweed extracts, bone meal, or other plant-based nutrients.
However, a fertiliser product is not always safe to use just because it is 100% natural or organically certified.
Some of these products have natural substances in them that could be harmful to your dog.
And if ingested in large amounts, they can cause abdominal pain to your furry companions.
It's always best to look specifically for the label that says "pet-safe fertilisers."
Another important aspect to evaluate is the application method of the fertiliser product.
One product type is granular fertiliser, which can be spread over your lawn using a spreader.
These products are typically safe once watered or absorbed into the soil.
Others, like the liquid fertiliser, require mixing with water and applied using a hose or sprayer.
There's also the solid type of pet-friendly fertiliser that doesn't have the ingredients common in traditional lawn fertilisers.
It's essential to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer regarding dosage and application frequency to ensure your pets' safety.
Furthermore, it's advisable to consider the potential environmental impact of your chosen fertiliser.
It's always a good idea to look for environmentally friendly products that minimise runoff or leaching into water bodies.
These options help maintain the overall ecological balance of your surroundings.
Related: Pet First Aid: What You Should Know
What To Look For?
There are ingredients that cat and dog owners should avoid when purchasing garden products for lawn care.
Here are some of them:
- Calcium
- Copper
- Iron
- Sodium
- Zinc
Also, avoid using any type of fertiliser that contains pesticides, fungicides, herbicides, or insecticides.
In addition, avoid using fertilisers with snail and slug bait in them.
Typically, these fertilisers have luring agents, which may also draw your best friend.
Usually, toxic metaldehyde is the active component.
Ammonia, which irritates the paws, skin, and lungs, as well as disulfoton, which causes seizures and pancreatitis, are two other substances to stay away from.
One of the most dangerous substances included in fertilisers is disulfoton.
Only a small amount (about 1%) of disulfoton can poison a medium-sized dog.
Fertiliser Poisoning Symptoms
Here are some signs your dog may exhibit if it has consumed or breathed fertiliser.
- Gastrointestinal tract ulceration
- Skin inflammation
- Breathing problems
- Redness and tears in the eyes
- Vomiting
- Burns on the foot pads
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
- Stomach aches
If you think your dog may have ingested fertiliser, visit a veterinarian immediately.
Related: Tips for a Rainy Day Dog Walk
FAQs
Are there natural lawn care habits that can fertilise my lawn?
Yes, you may fertilise your lawn naturally in a number of methods, including with grass clippings, compost, and bone meal.
It's crucial to remember that these techniques may not be as successful as if you opt to use a commercial fertiliser.
Should I really use pet-friendly fertilisers?
Here are some of the reasons why a pet-friendly fertiliser might be a better choice:
- It is advisable to switch to dog-safe fertiliser if your pup enjoys eating grass.
- Some pets find fertiliser to be palatable and may eat the product filled with toxic chemicals.
- You can also prevent poisoning due to fertiliser inhalation or consumption.
- The majority of pet safe lawn treatments don't harm the environment.
- If your pets frequently play outside, you can potentially avoid unexpected vet appointments.
Are all organic lawn care products safe for pets?
No, not always.
Although synthetic fertilisers are generally considered more dangerous for pets than organic lawn care products, it’s still crucial to read the labels and ensure they are marked as pet-safe or pet friendly fertilisers.
Can my pets go out after my pet-friendly fertiliser application?
It all depends on the lawn products you use and the directions from the manufacturer.
Pets must be kept off the grass for a specific amount of time after applying some pet-friendly fertilisers.
Always read the product label and pay close attention to the instructions.
How can I keep my pet safe from unknown lawns when going for a dog walk?
Make sure to keep your dog on a sturdy leash and collar when out for a walk so he won’t stray far.
Another option is to use a harness.
Always have your vet’s contact information handy, just in case!
Related: How I Became a Better Dog Owner
Conclusion
Selecting the best pet-safe lawn fertiliser is a decision that demonstrates your commitment to the well-being of your pets and the environment.
By opting for products explicitly labelled as pet-safe and utilising natural or organic ingredients, you can provide all the necessary nutrients your lawn needs without exposing your fluffy friends to harmful chemicals.
Additionally, considering the application method and following manufacturer instructions ensures proper usage and maximises your pet’s safety.
Choosing a pet-safe lawn fertiliser protects your pets from potential health risks and contributes to the overall ecological balance.
By opting for environmentally friendly options that minimise runoff and leaching, you can help maintain the health of local water bodies and preserve the surrounding ecosystem.
Investing in a pet-safe lawn fertiliser is a responsible choice that allows you to enjoy a vibrant, healthy, and beautiful lawn while ensuring the safety and happiness of your pets.
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