Garden Hazards Hiding in Plain Sight This Summer

Summer gardens can be wonderful places for pets to explore, but they can also hide a surprising number of dangers.

Knowing what to watch for can help keep your furry family members safe throughout the warmer months.

Barbecues and Outdoor Dining

Few things say summer quite like a barbecue, but many barbecue foods can be dangerous for pets.

Common culprits include:

• Cooked bones
• Corn cobs
• Onions and garlic
• Chocolate desserts
• Alcoholic drinks

Even seemingly harmless leftovers can cause digestive upset or serious blockages. ‘The classic’ is that we put our left overs / waste into the kitchen bin including kebab skewers and corn on the cob. The Labrador (other breeds are available) then gets into said bin and devours all of the above – this can genuinely cause some serious issues so please be careful!

Toxic Plants

Many popular garden plants can be harmful if chewed or eaten.

Some common examples include:

• Lilies (especially dangerous for cats)
• Foxgloves
• Rhododendrons
• Azaleas
• Laburnum

If you’re unsure whether a plant is pet-safe, it’s always worth checking before planting.

Slug Pellets and Garden Chemicals

Slug pellets, weed killers and fertilisers are among the most common seasonal toxins seen by vets. Store all gardening products securely and keep pets away from recently treated areas.

Grass Seeds

These tiny seeds can become lodged in paws, ears, eyes and even under the skin. After walks we would suggest a quick exam of your dog – check ears and feet primarily. If you see any seeds pull them off and discard.

In general, watch for:

• Excessive licking
• Head shaking
• Limping
• Swelling

If any of these symptoms arise in the summer months, we do wonder if a grass seed has sneakily got into a paw of an ear, or anywhere really. Give us a ring and we’ll examine your hound to investigate.

Ponds and Water Features

Although many dogs love water, ponds can contain harmful bacteria or blue-green algae during warmer weather. This is especially true of Bray Lake so please be careful.

If your dog swims in natural water sources, rinse them off afterwards and contact your vet if they appear unwell, most commonly an upset tummy that we can treat quite simply.

Stay Vigilant

A little awareness goes a long way. By identifying potential hazards early, you can ensure your garden and the outside world in general in the summer months remain a safe and enjoyable space for every member of the family.