Unleashed! Safety Corner

According to the ASPCA, more than 40% of the calls received by their Animal Poison Control Cente r are regarding pets bein g exposed to lawn and household chemicals. So how do we keep our pets safe? Start with t he fertilizer we use. For example, shells derived from cocoa beans are often used as lawn fertilizer or garden mulch but can be harmful to dogs if consumed. Affected dogs may develop theobromine toxicosis, which can result in ailments ranging from gastrointestinal upset to seizures. So be careful what you give your lawn; you might be giving it to your pet as well.