Pest Control Safe for Pets

We all want what’s best for our four-legged companions. Cats, dogs, and other pets are valued companions in many a household across the world. But a lot of us unwittingly expose our pets to toxic pesticides daily, putting them at a greater risk for poisoning, cancer and organ failure.
Keep an eye out for these pesticides and consider swapping them out with the healthier alternatives below.

1. Nudrin
Nudrin is a Methomyl-based insecticide widely used in vegetable and crop protection. Its symptoms are less severe in the long term than many other insecticides, as it isn’t believed to be bioaccumulative or carcinogenic, but it’s nonetheless a highly toxic carbamate insecticide that acts as an enzyme inhibitor.
Instead, consider: Essential oils
A wide variety of essential oils, if used consistently, can be used to repel unwanted pests from any garden. Rosemary oil is potent for repelling flies, fleas, mosquitoes and other pesky insects. Similarly, peppermint oil works as an effective, natural insecticide that can manage a wide range of insects, from beetles, to fleas to spiders. Thyme oil works on biting insects like chiggers and roaches, while clove oil is effective against many flying insects. By mixing equal parts of these four essential oils in a spray bottle with water, one can create a homemade, completely organic pesticide safe for pets and the environment.

2. Spectracide
Spectracide is an organophosphate insecticide, known for causing nerve and respiratory damage meant to cause the death of the insect. Similar nerve damage is found to affect pets and humans when exposed for a long period of time, and it causes a multitude of effects because of the number of organs it impacts. Convulsions, diarrhea and vomiting, loss of consciousness and even comas are all potential side effects of exposure to this chemical.
Instead, consider: Diatomaceous earth
Diatomaceous earth is an anti-caking agent that can be mixed with dirt to fight roaches, slugs, fleas and a multitude of other pests. It’s safe to consume and is considered a barrier repellent for bugs. Diatomaceous earth is a white powder that can be mixed in with earth, composed of finely milled fossils and diatoms. It cuts through insect exoskeletons like spiders, killing them without injuring any larger animals.

3. Phosdrin
Phosdrin is another organophosphate insecticide on the market. It can be absorbed through inhalation, skin absorption or ingestion and can cause respiratory distress, nausea and vomiting, ataxia, cardiac irregularities and paralysis, among other symptoms. If any sort of contact with this insecticide is dangerous, you certainly don’t want your pets rolling around in it.
Instead, consider: BioRepel
BioRepel is another organic insect repellent derived from natural oils. BioRepel is made of pure garlic and can disrupt pests such as flies, aphids, leafhoppers, and thrips. The garlic odor dissipates quickly from human smell but will keep pests away for days without leaving any noticeable taste or smell on plants meant for consumption.

At the end of the day, we want what’s best for our furry companions, and being aware of what chemicals you expose them to is key for their living a long, comfortable life. If your pets have already been exposed to such pesticides, make the switch as soon as possible to keep them safe and happy. In the meantime, keep an eye out for signs that your dog is unwell, such as muscle tremors, fever, vomiting and diarrhea, seizures, trouble walking or trouble breathing.

At Apple Pest Control we believe in safe pest control. Call to schedule your appointment today.