Many pet owners want to keep their homes pest-free while ensuring their furry companions remain safe. With many options available, finding the right pest control product that is safe around pets can be challenging. To ease this task, we’ve curated a list of pet-safe options to help keep your home pest-free.
Harmful Pests
Indoor and outdoor pests can range from bothersome to harmful, for people and their pets. Knowing what to look for can help you identify the most common pest varieties in your geographic area, even if they aren’t visible to the naked eye. It’s important to understand which pests are most likely to target your home or pet and the potential issues they can cause. Some common pests to watch out for include:
- Fleas
- Ticks
- Mosquitos
- Stinging insects
- Ants
- Cockroaches
- Rodents
Keep Things Clean
Pests are typically attracted to your home because there’s a food source. Your number one line of defense against attracting insects and rodents is to keep the inside of your home free of food debris and trash, and store food in airtight containers. Mice, for example, can survive on just a few crumbs and some surface moisture. A pantry full of easy-to-access packages of food is a literal buffet!
Indoor Deterrents for Pet Safe Pest Control
For effective indoor pest control, consider using natural repellents like essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, and citrus to deter pests without harming pets. Place cotton balls or tennis balls soaked in essential oils or a mixture of apple cider vinegar around your home to deter pests. If you see rodents, place ammonia-soaked rags in areas where you think they may be entering your home. If you use a commercial product, steer clear of inhumane glue traps and choose a snap trap or ultrasonic device instead. To avoid accidental contact, ensure that any deterrents you use are placed out of the reach of pets.
Outdoor Solutions for Pet-Friendly Pest Management
Using organic pest control sprays made from nontoxic ingredients is vital for maintaining a pet-friendly yard. These sprays repel pests without posing risks to pets. Beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings can also help manage pest populations naturally. Introducing these insects encourages a balanced ecosystem and minimizes the need for harmful pesticides. Another option is diatomaceous earth, which is safe for pets and effective against crawling insects. When applying it, choose food-grade diatomaceous earth and sprinkle it in areas where pests are seen. Help keep rodents at bay by securing trash can lids and keeping your yard clear of leaves, debris, or other materials that can be used for nesting. Keeping the yard tidy limits pest habitats while allowing pets to roam freely. As colder weather approaches, inspect your home’s foundation for cracks or spaces a rodent could enter through—a space the width of a number two pencil is all a mouse needs to enter a home.
Pest Control Safety Tips
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and many other experts recommend following these guidelines when using any pesticide if you have pets.
- Follow every product’s label information carefully, including the application procedure and how to protect pets and people from exposure.
- Keep pets out of areas (in your yard or home) where you’re applying liquid, powder, or granular pesticide products.
- Remove any food and water bowls, toys, and bedding from the area before treatment.
- After application, let the pesticide solution dry completely or granular dust settle before allowing your pets into the area.
- Keep pesticides in their original containers sealed tightly and stored out of reach of pets.
Know the Signs of Pesticide Poisoning
As diligent as we might be in creating a safe and healthy environment for our pets, we can’t control the practices and products used beyond our own lawns — such as at dog parks or in neighborhood green spaces. This is why it’s important to know the signs of pesticide poisoning in pets. Understanding these symptoms can help us act swiftly and seek veterinary care as soon as necessary, potentially saving our pet’s life. Symptoms of pesticide poisoning include:
- Excessive salivation or drooling – This is an early sign that your pet may have ingested something harmful.
- Vomiting – Keep an eye out for vomiting soon after visiting a new or suspect area.
- Diarrhea – Like vomiting, diarrhea is a clear indication of gastrointestinal distress.
- Lethargy or weakness – If your usually energetic pet is suddenly sluggish or weak, it could be a sign of poisoning.
- Seizures – In severe cases, exposure to certain chemicals can trigger seizures.
- Difficulty breathing – Watch for any signs of respiratory distress, which could indicate inhalation of toxic substances.
- Muscle tremors – Uncontrolled shaking or tremors can be a symptom of neurotoxic poisoning.
Your Pets are our Priority!
At the National Animal Supplement Council (NASC), our number one priority is to promote the health and well-being of your pets. That is why we created the NASC Audit Program and the Quality Seal, which helps you identify animal health and nutritional supplements that come from responsible suppliers committed to producing the highest quality, most consistent products available. Visit our website to learn more and to see a list of NASC members who have earned the Quality Seal.
