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In this guide you will learn everything you need to know about keeping your pets safe while you are doing yard work.
At the turn of every season. Homeowners perform routine lawn maintenance duties to keep the lawn looking lush and healthy.
Here’s the catch, while performing all of these lawn maintenance tasks, how do you keep your pets safe?
Well, If a pet insists on helping out, here are 6 helpful pointers to maintain the lawn, while preventing injury to any loved ones.
Let’s dive in to tip #1!
Tip 1: Prepare the property
First step! Before mowing the lawn, perform a quick assessment of the property.
Take a long walk and pick up anything that may become a projectile while you mow the lawn.
Remove any objects such as:
Pebbles,
Stones,
Sticks,
Or any other objects in the mowing area.
Look, this debris could become a deadly projectile and cause harm or even death if the object strikes a dog or cat. Even if it’s not a danger to your pets, it can damage property.
Pet’s or not, it’s important to remove all objects from the lawn.
But that's not all. Make sure that all pet toys, bones, and leashes are cleared off the property so your pups are not even tempted to come near any passing equipment.
Tip 2: Turn Everything Off
Never leave any lawn equipment unattended in the “on” position while a pet is outside.
Shutting down the engine on equipment including lawn mowers and weed eaters can prevent harm which can be caused by these machines.
Especially, if you are using electric lawn equipment! Make sure electric equipment is unplugged as any curious paw could potentially turn them on.
NEVER allow a 4-legged friend to ride with you while mowing. Hitting one small bump could propel any companion into harm’s way.
Tip 3: Pick Mulch Wisely
When spreading mulch, do not allow any of your pets to chew on the bark.
Here’s the deal because of mulch’s strong odor, some pets are attracted to the fresh scent and love to put their noses in it. But some types of mulch are toxic to them. Worst of all you never know how the mulch was processed.
Pro Pet Tip! Avoid cocoa mulch as it contains caffeine and theobromine. These ingredients are the same additives that make chocolate dangerous for most animals.
Use pet friendly mulch if at all possible (Read the label!).
Tip 4: Do Not Over Fertilize
Contrary to most fertilization companies’ advice to fertilize 6-8 times a year...
The current thinking in the lawn care community is that you should fertilize no more three times per year.
Spring, Summer and Fall.
In my experience, this practice is best for the lawn, environment, and also your pets.
Especially since pets tend to eat fertilizer. Especially the organic fertilizers. By fertilizing less you will reduce the number of possible chances pets have to ingest those toxic chemicals. 
That’s not all, when shopping for treatments. Make sure the warning label reads “pet-safe.”
Even though most fertilizers are low on the toxicity scale, many still pose a danger if enough is consumed.
Tip 5: Keep Hazardous Materials Away
When storing gas, paint, herbicides, pesticides, or any other chemicals after use. Secure these items away from any and all pets.
Animals, much like children are curious by nature. So keeping these chemicals out of reach will ensure they are not ingested.
Go the extra mile! By covering these items with a blanket or cloth that will reduce the odor and eliminate any added curiosity.
Tip 6: Sometimes They Need to Stay Inside
If all else fails, the best bet is often keeping pets inside the home.
Especially when fertilizers or pesticides are being used.
Why is it important to keep pets safe while doing yard work?
It's crucial to ensure your pets' safety during yard work to prevent injuries and protect them from potential hazards in the yard.
What should I do before mowing the lawn to keep my pets safe?
Before mowing, assess the property and remove any objects like pebbles, stones, sticks, or other debris that could become dangerous projectiles when the lawn is mowed. This step is essential for both pet safety and property protection.
Why should I turn off all lawn equipment when my pet is outside?
Leaving lawn equipment running while pets are outside can be dangerous. It's crucial to shut off the engine on equipment like lawn mowers and weed eaters to prevent harm to curious pets.
What types of mulch should I avoid to keep my pets safe?
Avoid mulch varieties like cocoa mulch, which contains caffeine and theobromine, the same substances found in chocolate that can be toxic to pets. Opt for pet-friendly mulch and read the label to ensure it's safe for your furry friends.
The Tail of the Story
It’s true, having a four-legged companion is one of the greatest joys of life. Pets provide unconditional love, an unbreakable bond, and true friendship.
Given that pets are such an important part of life, you as a homeowner must do everything to protect them and their environment.
The only fool-proof way to keep your pets safe while cutting grass the lawn, or performing yard work. Is to keep them inside, but having them stare out of the window while watching you work is gut-wrenching as well.
Following the tips above can help ensure that you and your pet will safely enjoy getting your paws dirty together.
If you need to hire a pro who can help maintain the lawn while your pets are safely in the home, hire a lawn pro through GreenPal!
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