Sunday, June 29, 2008

Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination

Title: Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination
Author: Dorianne Schwaiger

For the sake of your pets and family, please stop using
chemical pesticides.

Toxic pesticides are considered an active poison. They are
extremely dangerous to your health, your pets health and our
environment.

Every year, thousands of domestic pets and wild life lose their
lives to the ravaging effects of pesticide poisoning. Most pet
lovers also enjoy gardening and the great outdoors. Little do
they know what caustic ingredients are in the pesticides that
are being sprayed on lawns and green areas. We take for granted
that most herbicides used by gardeners or sold in stores are
safe. Many name brands such as "Weed n' Feed" and "Round Up"
contain the same deadly cancer causing ingredients that were
found in Agent Orange. Another synthetic poison found in these
two well known garden products is 2,4-D. It is also the active
ingredient found in "Killex." It can cause loss of reflex in
humans along with comas, kidney and liver failure. In dogs it is
the number one killer causing malignant lymphomas, a form of
cancer.

Sadly, just five percent of pesticides reach their target weeds
and garden pest. The rest are absorbed into our earth, targeting
our water supplies through a process called run off or simply
just dissipates into our air. Major health damage can occur when
Toxic Pesticides are absorbed through our skin, swallowed or
inhaled. When not applied correctly, pesticides can settle on
ponds, pools, children's toys, pets left outdoors and even drift
through open windows settling on our furniture, bedding and even
our floors. This deadly poison is often tracked into our homes
by our shoes and pets paws.

We all face the continuing problem of toxic by-products through
years of pesticide residue that is in our food supply and
everyday environment. What we don't realize is how wide spread
pesticide poisoning really is. These caustic chemicals are
virtually used in all of our public buildings including our
children's schools and play yards, restaurants, hospitals,
hotels and private homes. Pesticide abuse is used in our
agriculture and forest areas.

Why are Pets Vulnerable to Pesticide Poisoning?

* Pets spend most of their time close to the ground, this is
where pesticide concentration is highest.

* Pets ingest most pesticides while grooming themselves. Any
contact with chemicals connect with their fur and paws and is
then ingested by the pet.

* Pets spend more time outside and play in heavily treated
areas.

* Pets have higher absorption rates than human systems. Animals
may be more sensitive and easily poisoned by conditions deemed
safe to people.

Signs of Pesticide Poisoning In Pets

* Excessive drooling and foaming at the mouth.

* Loss of thirst and appetite.

* Vomiting or diarrhea.

* Immune function decline.

* Convulsions and disorientation.

* Birds and fish die due to toxic runoff in our water supply.

* Feline thyroid disease.

* Dogs contract cancer (malignant lymphoma)

What Can We Do To Stop Pesticide Poisoning?

* Adapt an alternative "green" solution for pest control.

* Enjoy your weeds and bugs. They are part of nature.

* Educate yourself about pesticides used by your HOA, Lawn
Service and immediate neighbors.

* Do not allow your pets to drink from ponds or outside water
sources - always keep fresh, clean water readily available.

* Leash your pets, allowing them to run free is not a good
idea.

* Bathe and brush your pets often.

* Wash down your outdoor living area.

* Think eco-conscious when dealing with your environment.

Protect yourself and your pets from synthetic pesticides by
being an educated consumer and willing activist in our
eco-system.

About The Author: Dori Schwaiger is an expert author on health
& wellness, she is also an avid animal lover and passsionate
about animal rights. Please visit the Pet Health section of her
website, http://www.TopHealthSpot.com for all your pets needs.

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