Hints for the Spring Season When spring temperatures start to rise, many homeowners begin using fertilizers and pesticides in their yards and gardens as well as start planting new flowers, trees, shrubs, etc. Unfortunately many pets accidentally become exposed to these potential poisons. Some very helpful recommendations given to owners (along with prompt intervention) can lead to healthy outcomes for these pets. 1. Have owners bring in the packaging and the product that is left (in a sealed plastic zippered bag if possible) from the fertilizer or pesticide. 2. If no packaging is available, then the EPA registration number (abbreviated EPA reg.) will usually greatly narrow down the possible products and, more importantly, the category of pesticide or fertilizer. This will help us to be able to give specific treatment recommendations. (Though not all fertilizers will have EPA registration numbers.) 3. If a specific plant is involved, then using the identification tag to find out the common name (or names) and the genus and species name of the plant is helpful. If there is no tag, but the owners think they know what the plant name is, then try to search for a photo of the plant online. This may allow the owner to confirm the type of plant involved. 4. If possible, take the plant to a local nursery or a florist for identification. Spring Hazards for Pets Spring time is a time of year we all look forward to. Common activities at this time of year may include spring cleaning, planting, opening swimming pools, de-winterizing campers or cabins, Easter celebration, and cooking out. These activities can also lead to pets ingesting potentially toxic substances. Below is a list of the relative toxicity of various spring-time hazards to which a pet may be exposed. Low toxicity (may cause gastrointestinal upset, but unlikely to cause serious problems unless very large amounts are ingested): • N-P-K fertilizers (no added insecticide or herbicide; iron level < 1% • Herbicides containing glyphosate • Bone meal (no added insecticide or herbicide • Charcoal briquettes (unused, no added lighter fluids) Moderate toxicity (may cause significant signs beyond mild gastrointestinal upset): • Spring blooming bulbs • Chocolate High toxicity (potential for very serious or life-threatening signs): • Pool chemicals • Easter lilies in cats • Antifreeze • Disulfoton (disyston) – containing systemic insecticides
Posted on: Thu, 23 May 2013 12:04:58 +0000
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