Make sure your garden is free of these dangers to keep your pet safe and happy.
Thanks to their curious nature, dogs can sniff, lick and chew their way into a case of poisoning or injury in the blink of an eye. And cats aren’t immune to mischief! Make sure your garden is free of these dangers to keep your pet safe and happy.
Common garden dangers
Compost
Depending on what you’re tossing in the compost bin, it could be hazardous for your pet.
Keep your compost free of human foods that are toxic to pets.
Fertiliser
Blood and bone fertilisers are appealing to dogs; however they can cause vomiting.
Use fertiliser that is free of toxins, and make sure pets are indoors when you’re spraying.
Slug, snail and rat bait
Baits are tasty for pets but toxic if ingested.
Keep snail bait out of reach and in a pet proof container. You can use salt instead or buy pet-friendly baits.
Garden tools
Many gardening tools, like rakes, are sharp and can easily cause puncture wounds, then the cuts can cause tetanus.
Make sure garden tools are locked away, or at least not hiding in tall grass.
Poisonous plants
Plant poisoning is fairly common for pets. It helps to be aware of which plants in your garden and neighbourhood can be harmful. Remove any toxic plants, or put them out of reach of pets
Plants to watch out for
- Black nightshade
- Karaka
- Deathcap mushroom
- New Zealand tree nettle (Onga Onga)
- Daffodils (especially the bulbs)
- Foxgloves
- Ivy (some species)
- Rhubarb
- Aloe Vera
- Onions and garlic
- Baby’s Breath (Gypsophila)
- Bird of Paradise
- Tomato Plant (green fruit, stems and leaves)
- Wandering Jew
- Barley Grass seeds
- Lilies
What to do if you suspect poisoning
1
Make a note of symptoms.
3
Check for opened containers, spilled liquids or known poisonous plants and collect a sample of the possible toxins.
4
Call your vet immediately for advice.
Signs of poisoning
- Excessive salivation
- Racing or irregular pulse
- Vomiting
- Lethargy
- Rapid breathing
- Cold extremities
- Trembling
- Seizures
- Itchiness
