Hidden Pet Dangers in Your Lawn
Gone are the days when pets were forced to live outside, chained next to a doghouse, with only a water bowl and bone to keep them company. These days, pets are family. As of 2017, it was estimated that Americans spend over $69 million a year on pet care. When you’re spending big bucks like that, you want to make sure your Spring Hill lawn is safe for Fido and Kitty. Here are some things to be mindful of if your pets spend time outdoors:
- A compromised perimeter. Unless you live on acres of land and have a very trustworthy pet, you need to make sure your four-legged family members stay put. If there is a loose fence panel or spot they can dig under, they’ll find a way to escape and explore. Also be sure to mention to any service person that you have pets, as they’ll be more mindful of closing gates if they need to access your lawn.
- Predators. If you’ve got small pets, there’s not much you can do about winged predators such as hawks and eagles, but you can still protect your animals from other ferocious beasts. If you notice holes or signs of digging in your yard, you may have an armadillo or other critter trying to make a home or root for food. If approached, these animals can attack your pet, so ask your local home improvement guru what repellants you can use that will keep the unwelcome animals out without causing harm to your pets.
- Toxic plants. Those sago palms, hostas, and aloe plants may look great in your landscaping, but they (among other plants) are toxic to your pets. Help your pet stay healthy by training them to avoid these areas; if necessary, purchase a spray from your local pet supply store to make the plants smell and taste unappealing. If all else fails, consider installing some kind of barrier to prevent access.
- Blood and bone meal. These organic fertilizers are great when it comes to increasing the nitrogen levels of your soil, but because they are literally made with blood and crushed bone, they smell fantastic to animals — dogs in particular. While a taste of this won’t cause any harm, few dogs have the self-control to stop eating. If they ingest too much, it could lead to a blockage of the gastrointestinal tract, which is most often removed through surgery. The best course of action is to find another type of fertilizer that is not so appealing to your pets.
At Challenger Irrigation, we take great pride in helping Hernando County home owners have lawns that can be enjoyed by their entire family — both two-legged and four. If there is anything we can do to help you with your irrigation needs or sprinkler repair, contact our office today to schedule an appointment.
