Bug spray for dogs pet owners around the world, including thousands in the Triangle region, often ask how to manage pests without endangering their pets. Pests don’t discriminate by location; where there are humans, especially those with dogs, pests will follow. Dogs, along with their food and waste, can attract flies, cockroaches, fleas, and ticks.
Are we destined to live with pests if we have pets? Leading pest control experts in the Triangle assure us that dog owners don’t have to suffer from pests. With the right knowledge and strategies, pests can be effectively controlled. This is where pest control services come in.
A major concern for dog owners is the safety of pest control methods. The most common methods involve chemically made insecticides, which are available in stores, convenient, and effective. However, they pose risks to children and pets.
Go-Forth Pest Control, a top service provider in Durham and Raleigh, NC, offers safe and effective pest control solutions. They have numerous tips and tricks to share, ensuring that you and your pets can live pest-free. Interested? Read on to learn more.
The Danger To Dogs
Dogs are typically happy-go-lucky creatures, a trait that endears them to humans but also puts them at risk. Their curiosity drives them to investigate and sniff around, unaware of potential dangers like pesticide residue.
Homeowners often use pesticides to eliminate pests such as fleas, weeds, rats, and mice, applying these chemicals around the house, garden, or even directly on their pets. While effective, these pesticides can be harmful to dogs bug spray for dogs.
If pesticides are hazardous to humans, they’re even more dangerous for our canine companions. Research indicates that chemical pesticides can cause cancer, nerve damage, birth defects, and other long-term health issues in dogs. This raises a crucial question: can we control pests without endangering our pets? The good news is, yes, we can. Here are some chemical pesticides to avoid if you have dogs at home, ensuring a safer environment for your furry friends.
- Phosdrin – This organophosphate insecticide is widely available and highly toxic. It can be absorbed through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion. Exposure can lead to nausea, vomiting, paralysis, respiratory distress, and cardiac irregularities.
- Nudrin – Commonly used to protect crops and vegetables, Nudrin is a potent carbamate insecticide that acts as an enzyme inhibitor. Its high toxicity poses significant risks.
- Spectracide – Another organophosphate insecticide, Spectracide targets the nerve and respiratory systems of insects but can also harm humans and animals with prolonged exposure. Symptoms of poisoning include vomiting, diarrhea, loss of consciousness, convulsions, and coma.
Using these pesticides on your property can have severe consequences for your dog. Fortunately, there are dog-friendly alternatives that are both safe and effective.
Dog-Friendly Pesticides
One important reminder: “natural” does not always mean “dog-friendly” when it comes to pesticides. Never assume that a natural product is safe for your pets, as this misunderstanding could lead to serious harm.
To help you choose the right products, Go-Forth Pest Control has compiled a list of pet-friendly pesticides that are both safe and effective for keeping your home pest-free without endangering your furry friends.
- Acetamiprid – Initially used to protect plants from sucking insects, Acetamiprid has proven effective against bed bugs. It is odorless and made of synthetic organic compounds. The Environmental Protection Agency deems it safe for humans, pets, mammals, birds, and fish, as it degrades quickly in soil through metabolism. Always read the label before use.
- Lufenuron – This compound controls flea infestations by preventing eggs from hatching. Combined with insecticides that kill adult fleas, it offers an effective flea control solution and is proven safe for bug spray for dogs.
- Pyriproxyfen – An insect growth regulator, Pyriproxyfen inhibits the growth of insects and prevents population increases. It is safe enough to be applied directly to pets for flea and tick control and is EPA-registered. While high doses might cause temporary vomiting in dogs, low doses show no symptoms. It also controls carpet beetles, cockroaches, ants, and mosquitoes.
- Spinosad – Toxic to insects but safe for dogs, Spinosad is a blend of spinosyn A and spinosyn D. Registered with the EPA, it controls leafminers, mosquitoes, ants, thrips, spider mites, and fruit flies. It damages the nervous system of insects, causing paralysis and death. It is also effective against head lice in humans and fleas in pets.
- Nitenpyram – This neonicotinoid rapidly kills adult fleas on dogs and cats but is less effective against eggs. When used as directed, it is safe for dogs. Temporary scratching may occur as fleas die, but this should resolve on its own. Consult your vet if you notice anything unusual.
- Imidacloprid – Mimicking the effects of nicotine, Imidacloprid is effective against termites, sucking insects, and fleas. Safe for dogs, it disrupts insects’ nerve functions, ultimately killing them. Absorbed by plants, it spreads throughout leaves, stems, flowers, and fruits, poisoning any insects that consume them.
- S-methoprene – Acting as a hormone in insects, S-methoprene prevents growth and development, killing fleas, moths, flies, beetles, and other pests. It stops normal molting, egg-laying, and egg-hatching, thus preventing reproduction. Always follow the label instructions for safe use.
Read The Label
Although the pesticides listed above are generally deemed safe, improper use can still lead to poisoning. Overdosing is a significant risk. Always read the label before using any pesticide.
Keep your dog, along with their feeding bowl and toys, away from areas where pesticides are being applied. While you cannot always control your dog’s curiosity, you can manage their exposure to potential hazards. Avoid using pellet-shaped pesticides, as they can be mistaken for food by pets.
Do not mix pesticides with organic fertilizers, as dogs may be attracted to the taste of organic substances.
Store all pesticides securely out of reach of both children and pets.
Another potential issue is your dog encountering pesticides used by neighbors. Since you cannot control what your dog does outside, it’s wise to discuss with your neighbors about the types of pesticides they use.
If your dog accidentally contacts or ingests pesticides, call your vet immediately. Provide details on the ingested substance, quantity, and method of exposure. If your dog has vomited, bring a sample, along with the pesticide packaging if possible bug spray for dogs.
Pesticides can be beneficial, but extra caution is needed when pets and children are around. If you’re uncertain about which pesticide to use or how to use them safely, consult experts such as those from Go-Forth Pest Control.
Go-Forth Pest Control is renowned in the Triangle area for their expertise in pest control, including flea control for dogs. Their team of skilled professionals uses pet-friendly and family-friendly methods, ensuring the safety of your loved ones.
Safe Bug Sprays for Dogs
Whether it’s a brisk evening walk or a summer afternoon in the park, bug bites can seriously spoil the fun. Here are five insect repellents that are both safe and effective for your pup bug spray for dogs.
Check out these top picks for insect repellents that are safe and effective for your furry friend:
- Vet’s Best Mosquito Repellent for Dogs and Cats
- Badger Anti-Bug Shake & Spray
- Natural Care Flea and Tick Spray for Dogs and Cats
- Wondercide Lemongrass Natural Flea & Tick Spray for Pets + Home
- Richard’s Organics Flea & Tick Spray
What makes these bug sprays safe ?
At Natural Dog Company, we’re deeply committed to eco-friendliness and the well-being of our furry companions. We firmly believe that natural products not only promote a healthier environment but also ensure the safety of our pets. That’s why all five of our recommendations are crafted from natural ingredients and adhere to the EPA’s strict standards for minimum risk pesticides.
Don’t use DEET products on dogs
While DEET is known for its effectiveness as an insect repellent and has a relatively low toxicity rating, it’s essential to exercise caution when using it around your pet. Dousing your furry friend in Cutter Backwoods before your evening run isn’t advisable.
Dogs may not understand that they shouldn’t lick bug spray off their bodies. Even if your dog avoids ingesting it, DEET can still be absorbed through their skin. Similar to the active ingredients in certain lawn pesticides, DEET can accumulate in your dog’s system over time. High concentrations can lead to various issues, including inflammation, tremors, respiratory problems (if inhaled), and in rare instances, seizures bug spray for dogs.
Ask Your Vet About Essential Oils
While essential oils are generally considered safe for both humans and dogs, there’s limited scientific research regarding their safety for pets, particularly cats. It’s crucial to understand that natural doesn’t always equate to safety.
For instance, while a few drops of peppermint oil may seem harmless, improper use or application can lead to skin irritation or gastrointestinal issues if ingested. Certain oils like cinnamon and citrus are even toxic to dogs and cats.
Before using essential oils on your pet, it’s best to consult your veterinarian. They can provide guidance on which oils may be suitable, as well as advise on proper dosages and dilutions to ensure your pet’s safety.
