Dangers in My Yard That Will Affect My Dog

Owning a dog is a big responsibility, and it is your duty as a dog owner to make sure they stay safe and healthy! This includes avoiding and preventing dangers in your yard. There are many different things in the yard that can affect your dog, and it is important to be aware of them all.

  1. Snail & Slug Bait

    • Snail and slug bait is commonly used by both homeowners and gardeners to kill snails and slugs in the yard. Most of these baits contain metaldehyde, which is highly toxic to dogs if ingested. Within one to four hours after ingestion, dogs become hyperthermic, anxious, ataxic, and have tremors and often seizures. These symptoms can lead to brain damage and death if not treated immediately. If you have a gardener, make sure that they do not use snail and slug bait in your yard.

    Rodenticide

    • Another commonly used toxin in the yard is rodenticide. There are many different types that contain different toxins, but most are anticoagulating agents (such as warfarin). If your dog ingests this poison, onset of blood coagulation issues will occur in six hours and last up to two days. It is vital that dogs who ingest this toxin are treated immediately by a veterinarian. If you must use rat and mouse bait in your yard, try to use traps instead of this dangerous toxin.

    Flowers and Plants

    • Be aware of what grows in your yard as there are plants that are toxic to dogs, and there are numerous sites available that list the many plant items you and your dog should be wary of. Two of the most common toxic plants are lilies and mushrooms. Symptoms of lily ingestion include anorexia, depression and vomiting; onset occurs within two hours. For mushroom ingestion, dogs will have abdominal pain, ataxia, depression, diarrhea, salivation, nausea, and can even have seizures. For any toxic plant ingestion, go to your veterinarian immediately for treatment.

    Fences and Gates

    • If every fence post and board in your yard doesn't go deep into the ground, your dog may be able to dig under the fence and escape, which can be very dangerous as neighboring yards may contain unknown toxins and, of course, there is the danger of your dog running into a busy street. Inspect all borders of your yard, looking at every gate and fence, to make sure that there are no exposed areas.

    Standing Water

    • Any standing water in your yard can be a major health hazard for both humans and pets. Mosquitos are often drawn to these areas and can bring with them a number of diseases. Additionally, if wild animals have access to your yard, they can bring with them diseases as well.

    Holes and Ditches

    • If your yard has any holes or ditches, particularly if you have a large yard where your dog is permitted to run, this can be dangerous as dogs may trip on holes or fall into ditches. Toe, foot, limb or even bodily injury may result otherwise.