With summer gardening projects nearby, it’s spring planning season.  That’s the perfect time to “take 5” to remember what items are best kept away from companion animals.  Many common products, plants, and garden supplies are toxic to animals.  While many resources are available identifying various household products and foods that are hazardous to animals, while not complete, the below  list includes five specific garden dangers.

If you think your companion animal may have been exposed to a harmful item, don’t delay- contact your local veterinarian immediately!  The ASPCA Pet Poison Control Center and Pet Poison Helpline also have consultations available for phone support (each service has a fee that may apply).

1. Insecticides: if you apply products aimed at targeting pests, these sprays, granules, and powders are not safe for any animal to ingest (or walk on, since animals lick their paws).  Use safety precautions and restrict your companion animals’ exposure to minimize risks.  Read all warning labels completely and carefully and follow instructions for safe application around animals and children (like wait times for exposure, removal of dishes, etc.)

2. Plants: some plants that are beautiful to look at can cause sever damage if nibbled!  From azaleas to chrysanthemums, lilies, and tulips, many popular plants may pose serious health risks, sometimes primarily to a single species.  The Pet Poison Control Center’s No Lilies for Kitties campaign is an example to raise awareness about specific hazards. Explore the ASPCA’s guide to toxic and non-toxic plants for a more extensive list.

3. Fruits and Vegetables: garden fresh food is a treat for humans, but some foods are dangerous for animals!  If you grow any of the following, these common people foods can be hazardous to animals:  garlic, onion, chives, grapes (and raisin), avocados, mushroom plants.  Also be aware that discarded items like cherry pits, apple seeds, peach pits, and mustard seeds  can be dangerous to animals.  If you compost, beware of coffee grounds, rhubarb leaves, tomato leaves and stems, potato leaves and stems, and other food items can be poisonous.

4. Fertilizers: products designed to boost plant growth and provide nutrients may contain toxins.

5. Mulch: mulch products vary, and can contain concentrates of dangerous material.  One common risk is cocoa mulch, which contains cocoa bean shells.  Cocoa mulch, like chocolate, poses health risks for dogs.

Keep access limited by establishing a garden fence, raised bed, or other means to reduce risks in your yard. Find ideas about ways to “poison proof” your garden projects, and take time to minimize these five risks in your yard!