Monday, February 22, 2010

Pesticides can also hurt your pooch


Spraying chemicals on your lawn may may not only affect you, but your four-legged friends outside too.

Our furry friends are high risk for pesticides poisoning for a variety of reasons. Firstly, they are low to the ground. Being so much closer to the chemicals makes them more susceptible to absorbing what's on the lawn. The same principle is true for our toddlers.
They also spend a lot of time grooming. So after you let Spot in from outside, he might start licking his contaminated fur and ingest the toxins orally. Remember, pesticides will stay on your lawn for days after and may travel through the air, water, or by other animals.

Several studies, including The Cancer Registry and Surveillance System for Companion Animals, are mapping the incidence of cancer in companion animals in Nassau County, as well as in central and western New York. They have noted a dramatic increase in lymphoma cases in recent years due to pesticide use.

Our solution is to stop using these chemicals and you'll reduce the risk of health concerns for your pooch, cat, or any other pet that may have exposure to your lawn. Also, try to say away from lawns or parks that have been recently sprayed. Be aware of signs from the City or from priviate spraying companies stating that they have just sprayed. The signs are often small, so keep an eye out and be cautious of any strange smells.

Here are some examples of signs to look out for:


What else can I do?
- Forward this link to your friends
- Contact us for a great 1-page document that your can share with your neighbours (pesticidefreeedmonton@gmail.com)
- Let City Councilors know that you want to protect your pets from toxic chemicals! Book a meeting with them to share how you feel. (Here's a site that will help you: http://edmonton.ca/city_government/city_organization/city-council.aspx)
- Start up a Facebook or Twitter site about this issue and invite your friends


Live well, Be aware, Get involved,
Pesticide Free Edmonton




Want some more information?

Check out some of our favourite sites and articles!

http://www.thedailygreen.com/environmental-news/latest/4215#ixzz0gHpKdz9h
http://catsdogslawns.blogspot.com/

1 comment:

  1. Re: pesticide warning signs, Ha Ha, we don't have any and no law to force people to post a sign either. The city has little yellow signs that say "Caution". They are posted for 48 hours - that is if the neighbourhood kids don't throw them in the bushes first.

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