Worry about the chemicals in your lawn fertilizer treatments? Are they safe for dogs, pets and kids? How long do you need to wait to go back on the grass? And are some treatments safer than others?
We know your furry friends are more like family, and ensuring their safety is important. To help, we’ve created this comprehensive guide that answers your questions about whether lawn fertilizer is safe for dogs, other pets, and kids.
Your lawn is more than just grass; it’s an outdoor playground for your pets. While a fertilized lawn is key to maintaining a healthy yard, understanding the potential impact on your pets and family is essential. We all want a lush, green lawn, but as a pet owner, you might wonder: is lawn fertilizer dog-safe?
Are Lawn Treatments Safe for Kids and Pets?
Yes, lawn treatments can be safe for kids and pets when applied properly and with the right products. At JHL Turf Pros, we prioritize safe, eco-friendly products that are safe for pets and children. Our team of lawn care professionals is trained to use treatments responsibly and will advise on any necessary precautions.
“We’re committed to using eco-conscious, pet-friendly fertilizers that are safe for your furry friends and effective for your lawn. Our goal is to provide beautiful, healthy lawns while giving you peace of mind about what’s being used in your outdoor spaces,” said Jon Hubler, Founder and CEO of JHL Turf Pros.
Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
- Communicate: If you have children and pets, just let us — or whoever is doing your lawn fertilizer treatments — know so we can answer any questions about the applications we put down, or the waiting period before going back on the lawn. At JHL Turf Pros we use organically-based fertilizers that are safe for pets and kids.
- Allow a Waiting Period: Treatments are kind of like paint. It wouldn’t be a good idea to drink or lick it when wet, but after it’s dry, it’s no problem. Before walking on the grass, it’s best to wait until it is completely dry, which usually takes less than two hours after the lawn treatment.
Do You Offer Organic Lawn Care Treatments?
We work hard to give you the best end product and stay on the leading edge of the landscape and lawn care industry. Organic-based fertilizers have gained popularity—not only because they are ‘eco-friendly’—but also because of the inherent benefits, which include:
- They’re Safer for People and Pets: Organic-based treatments do not produce harmful side effects on the humans or pets who use the lawn.
- They’re Renewable, Biodegradable, and Sustainable: Organic-based fertilizers are partly derived from natural sources and filled with micro-nutrients and microorganisms for healthier, more disease-resistant plants.
- They Help Improve Root Growth: The slow release of organic nutrients and bio-solids helps grass roots grow better and stronger—leading to a thicker and healthier lawn.
- They Help Improve Soil Health: Without good soil, it is tough to grow healthy turf. Organic-based fertilizer will improve the texture of the soil and increase microbial activity, creating extremely healthy soil over time.
JHL Turf Pros also offers an all-natural mosquito & tick application that’s an optional add-on to a lawn care treatment plan. Cedar oil is a safe, non-toxic, 100% organic insecticide that is safe for pets and families. It is a proven method to control and repel mosquitos, fleas, ticks, and mites.
Ultimately, don’t put “junk food” on your lawn. Your grass uses it up fast, and in the end, it’s not as healthy for your lawn. We care about your soil’s long-term health.
For this reason, our lawn care treatment program uses a blend of organic and non-organic ingredients to tackle stubborn weeds and give you a beautiful, healthy, green lawn. We use organic-based fertilizers whenever possible, and our mosquito and tick application is 100% natural.
How Can I Identify and Avoid Fertilizer Hazards for Pets?
If you’re a DIYer, it’s essential to recognize potential risks related to lawn fertilizers. Here are some things to keep in mind.
- Look for Pet-Safe Labels: Choose products labeled as “safe for pets” or “child-friendly.” These fertilizers are formulated to minimize potential harm if your pets come into contact with them.
- Review Active Ingredients: Avoid fertilizers that contain harsh chemicals, like high nitrogen levels, phosphorus, or potassium, which can be toxic to dogs if ingested in large quantities.
- Seek Organic Lawn Care Solutions: Organic fertilizers are derived from natural materials like compost or bone meal and are less likely to irritate your pets. However, some organic options may still tempt dogs to eat them due to their scent, so monitoring is essential.
- Keep Pets Indoors During Application: Avoid letting pets roam in the yard while fertilizers are being applied.
- Inspect Your Lawn Regularly: To maintain a pet-safe yard, regularly inspect your lawn for hazards like clumps of fertilizer that your pet might ingest.
If you decide not to DIY it, choosing a locally run lawn care provider, like JHL Turf Pros, means you can work with a team that knows the Central PA area and genuinely cares about your family’s safety and satisfaction.
Let’s Recap
At the end of the day, your lawn should be a safe, enjoyable space for every family member—pets included.
“As someone who loves both dogs and lawns, I know how important it is to balance a healthy yard and pet safety. That’s why we always use products and methods designed with your pets in mind. From pet-friendly fertilizers to proper application practices, we take every precaution to ensure your lawn is not only beautiful but also a safe space for your furry family members to enjoy,” said Andy Zook, JHL Turf Pros,Turf Manager.
Our commitment to using organic-based fertilizers whenever possible and providing transparent guidance ensures peace of mind while giving you a lawn you can be proud of.
- Your Lawn, Your Pets: Your lawn is a space for your family and pets. Fertilizers are safe when applied responsibly with the right products.
- Safety Tips:
- Let us know if you have pets or children.
- Wait 2 hours or until dry before people or pets touch your lawn.
- Organic-based Benefits: Organic-based fertilizers are safe for pets and promote eco-friendly, long-term soil health. They also help improve root growth, soil texture, and microbial activity, leading to thicker, greener grass.
- Pet-Friendly Add-Ons: Cedar oil applications offer natural, non-toxic protection against mosquitoes, fleas, and ticks.
- For DIY Applications: Read the labels, avoid harsh chemicals, and routinely inspect your lawn for anything your pet could ingest.
By incorporating regular maintenance and working with experts, you can enjoy a lawn that’s not only lush and green but also a safe, welcoming space for your furry family members. If you’re unsure about your lawn care products, contact us for a consultation and to get a quote. Together, we’ll create a plan that works for your lawn and keeps your pets safe.