6 Potential Backyard Hazards for Your Pet

Nice days are up ahead, and everyone is looking forward to enjoying their backyard with their furry friend. However, the backyard can conceal dangers for your pet. Make sure it is safe for your cat or dog, just as you would do for young children. Because it’s always better to be safe than sorry, here’s a list to help you spot the potential dangers that could be lurking in your yard.

Plants and Gardening

Gardening brings much joy. Whether we want a flower or vegetable garden, it’s important to know that there are many plants known to be toxic to pets. Here are a few:

• Tulips
• Narcissi
• Daffodils
• Hyacinths
• Lily of the Valley
• Ivy
• Rhododendrons
• Boxwood
• Parsley
• Holly
• Mistletoe
• Cedar
• Potato plants
• Onion plants
• Tomato plants

Also, it is important to always put your gardening tools away so they can’t cause injury to your pet.

Fertilizers and Insecticides

When you have pets, it is best advised to avoid using fertilizers and insecticides. Instead, opt for a natural fertilizer like horse manure, hen manure or compost. Furthermore, there are certified organic grass fertilizers on the market which are safe for pets.

Pools and Garden Ponds

The risk of drowning is also high for animals. Most dogs know how to swim but sometimes it can be hard for them to climb out the side of a pool or pond. Make sure to always block access to the pool. As for garden ponds, consider adding a plank with nonskid tape, with one end in the water and the other on firm ground. This way, your pet will be better able to get out if ever there was a need to.

Rain Barrels

Make sure to close the lid of the rain barrel properly. Animals are naturally curious and will try to climb on top to see what’s inside. As a result, they risk drowning if they fall in and you are not around to help them out.

Hot Sun

The sun can be intensely hot during this period, so make sure your cat or dog has a shaded spot in the yard where they can hide from the sweltering sun. Also, don’t forget to always provide them with fresh water so they don’t get dehydrated.

Compost Bin

Make sure to close the compost bin properly, because the decomposing organic matter in it can contain mycotoxins which can cause convulsions if they are ingested.

Reading this list, you might think it may just be easier to keep your pet inside! But don’t worry, the backyard can be a safe place for your furry friend. The key is to take the same safety measures you would with young children. Take the time to spot the dangers and eliminate them. This way, you’ll be able to enjoy the nice weather with your cat or dog without worry.

Have fun!

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