Saturday, July 19, 2008

Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination

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

Paws & Pesticides - A Deadly Combination
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:

Meet Dori Schwaiger, a well known author on Pet health &
wellness. Dori is also the owner of
http://www.tophealthspot.com , a destination on the web
with health conscious people and animal lovers alike!Shop
for all of your pets name brand products & animal
medications with exclusive money saving health coupons.

.

__,_._,___

No comments: