Many people are concerned about using pesticides around their pets, and for good reason. Eating insect baits and mice can be very harmful to our pets, as can walking through freshly sprayed insecticides, depending on the product. However, topical pesticides and insecticides intended for dogs are generally very safe when used correctly.
Our general advice is to read label directions when using pesticides around pets and to contact Pet Poison Help or an Animal Poison Control Center if you are concerned about your dog being exposed to pesticides.
However, there are those who are looking for more natural methods of dealing with pet pests, and we will show you the safest natural pesticides for pets so you can have a healthier and safer home.
Pet-safe insecticides are versatile, whether you want to keep insects out of your garden or out of your home and houseplants. The best solution depends on the pest you’re targeting. Some insecticides are more versatile and help kill a variety of insects, with applications ranging from powders to liquids and sprays.
When choosing the best pet-safe pesticide for your situation, research its appropriate uses and exposure reduction tips to keep your dog safe.
Apply neem oil solution early in the morning or late afternoon, as applying it during the hot afternoon hours can cause leaf burn. Shake the bottle and spray the plant from top to bottom. For continued control of insects, spray again in 7 to 10 days. If you are unsure how your plants will respond to the oil, spray a test area and wait 24 hours to observe the changes.
Diatomaceous earth is a powdery substance consisting of the dried fossilized remains of diatoms, a type of single-celled green algae. Diatomaceous earth has been used by gardeners for generations to effectively repel a variety of insects and pests, including:
Fine silica is a desiccant. When pests walk over it, the DE acts as an abrasive, adsorbing oils and fatty acids from their bodies, causing them to dry out and die. If you buy food grade DE, you can safely apply it to your pet. Dogs can even swallow a small amount to repel worms, or you can apply it to their fur to get rid of external parasites.
Please note that this product is only recommended for topical use on dogs, and even then it may cause skin irritation. It may also cause problems if it gets into your dog’s eyes or is inhaled.
You can use food grade DE anywhere you have pest problems, whether indoors or in your yard. While this powder is generally safe, it can cause irritation if inhaled, so be sure to wear a dust mask and gloves when using it.
Once you find an infested area, sprinkle a small amount of DE on it and let it soak into the plants and surrounding soil. Indoors, you can use DE on carpets, cabinets, around appliances and trash cans, and near windows and doors. Leave it on for a few hours before vacuuming, or leave it on for a few days if there is no traffic nearby.
DE takes some time to work. You may see signs of reduced disease in just a few hours, but don’t be surprised if it takes a week or more to see noticeable results. In the meantime, please monitor your dog to make sure they are not having any adverse reactions.
Beneficial nematodes are a pest-resistant soil infusion that makes gardening safe for pets. These microorganisms are safe for humans, pets, and the plants they protect, but they are aggressive toward caterpillars, cutworms, grubs, and hundreds of other pests that spend some time underground. Fortunately, they do not harm earthworms, which are beneficial to your garden.
Nematodes penetrate the bodies of target insects and infect them with bacteria that kill the pests. When the bacteria are introduced into the soil, the nematodes multiply and spread, hunting down and infecting any pests they encounter.
Nematodes are available in various mixtures that can be mixed with water and sprayed around the lawn and garden or used as a soil drench. Nematodes should be used on cloudy days as sunlight will make them ineffective. Rainy days are possible as nematodes thrive in damp soil. Otherwise, the soil should be drenched before use.
Essential oils are an eco-friendly alternative to harsh chemical pesticides. Although many compounds, such as limonene, are toxic to dogs and cats in high doses, their presence in many low-toxicity products is unlikely to cause any adverse reactions. Here are some commercial pet-safe insecticides you can use at home:
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safety when using indoors and outdoors. While generally safe, dogs may experience some side effects if they are young or particularly sensitive to essential oils. Fortunately, the smell of many essential oils can make pets uncomfortable, so they are less likely to be poisoned by inhaling or licking the essential oil.
Pesticides are one of the most common causes of poisoning in pets. Many products affect non-target species, so pets and wildlife can suffer adverse health effects. Dogs and cats face different risks when they ingest and inhale toxins or absorb them through their skin.
Flare-ups can lead to hypothermia, hyperthermia, difficulty breathing, and seizures. If you suspect poisoning, it is extremely important to seek immediate veterinary care, as dogs can die from severe poisoning. The herbicide 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid has been linked to canine lymphoma.
Generally speaking, pesticides and pets do not mix, even when it comes to pest control products that are safe for cats and dogs. Overexposure to safe solutions can eventually harm animals, and pets can interfere with diatomaceous earth and other natural pesticides when they are exposed to them, limiting their effectiveness.
While pesticides have many benefits, you can reduce your need for them by taking a holistic approach. By repelling pests and making your home and garden less attractive, you’ll naturally reduce the number of insects you have to deal with.
Integrated pest management starts with knowing what species are in your garden, both beneficial and harmful. Maintaining ecosystems is important for soil and plant health, and unplanned pesticide use can harm beneficial organisms. With a well-designed IPM strategy, you can reduce pesticide use and support beneficial insects and microorganisms, promoting plant growth and protecting against harmful invasive species.
Pet-safe insecticides may require a little extra effort to provide effective pest control in your home and garden, but our furry family members are worth it. Consider your unique insect problems and develop a comprehensive pest control plan. By minimizing pesticide use and using natural solutions when necessary, you’ll be more responsible for the health of your pets, your family, and the planet.
Nicole has loved animals of all sizes her entire life, so it’s no surprise that she’s dedicated her career to helping them in her favorite ways: learning, writing, and sharing her knowledge with others. She’s the proud mom of two dogs, one cat, and one human. With a college degree and over 15 years of writing experience, Nicole hopes to help pet owners and pets everywhere live happy, safe, and healthy lives.
Post time: Jan-06-2025