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There are lots of pets – dogs and cats – west of New York City. Plus, in New York’s suburbs in New Jersey, raccoons, squirrels, and other animals thrive in neighborhood parks. That’s why New Jersey residents should take care of their yards while keeping these furry friends in mind.
Some traditional pest management methods involve chemicals that can be harmful to pets, humans, and wildlife. Fortunately, many local pest control companies now offer pet-friendly solutions that effectively eliminate pests without compromising your pets’ health. Even for those companies that may not recommend it as their first option, homeowners and businesses interested in pet-friendly pest control can ask.
Why choose pet-friendly pest control?
Traditional pest control methods can involve chemicals that are toxic to pets. Pets, especially dogs and cats, are more susceptible to these toxins due to their size, behavior, and grooming habits. Pet-friendly pest control focuses on using non-toxic, natural, or minimally toxic products that are safe for your animals while still being effective against pests.
It’s always good to think about the environment, too. Some chemicals can wash into creeks and reservoirs, potentially hurting humans. Often, the pet-safe option is good for the planet.
Natural pest repellents
Consider using natural repellents, such as essential oils (e.g., citronella or eucalyptus), to deter pests without harming your pets. Here are just a few top products that are environmentally safe:
1. Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control Spray
- Active ingredients: Cedarwood oil, sesame oil, or lemongrass oil
- Best for: Mosquitoes, fleas, ticks, ants
- Pet-safe: After drying
- Bonus: Hooks up to a hose for easy lawn coverage
2. Mosquito Bits (by Summit)
- Active ingredient: Bti (a naturally occurring bacterium)
- Best for: Killing mosquito larvae in standing water (like birdbaths or puddles)
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Tip: Great for prevention around gardens or patios
3. Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade)
- Use: Sprinkle around garden beds or problem areas
- Best for: Ants, fleas, beetles, and more crawling insects
- Pet-safe: Yes, as long as it’s food-grade
4. Orange Guard
- Active ingredient: D-limonene (from orange peels)
- Best for: Ants, roaches, and other insects
- Pet-safe: Yes, when used as directed
- Extra: Can also be used inside if needed
5. Neem Oil Spray
- Active compound: Azadirachtin (from neem tree seeds)
- Best for: Aphids, beetles, caterpillars, mites
- Pet-safe: Yes, when dry
- Bonus: Also acts as a fungicide for gardens
6. Garlic Barrier Spray
- Active ingredient: Garlic extract
- Best for: Mosquitoes, ticks, and garden pests
- Pet-safe: Yes
- Pro tip: It smells strong at first, but fades quickly
Tips for keeping your pets safe during landscaping
Even when using pet-friendly pest control methods, it’s important to take precautions:
- Keep Pets Indoors: After treatment, keep pets indoors for the recommended time to allow any residual products to dry or dissipate. Consider leaving signs in your yard to prevent neighborhood pets and humans from entering your yard.
- Ventilate the Area: Open windows and doors to ensure proper ventilation during and after treatment.
Follow Technician Instructions: Adhere to any guidelines provided by the pest control technician regarding pet safety.
Reliable is pet-friendly
Protecting your home from pests doesn’t have to come at the expense of your pets’ health. By choosing a reputable pest control company that offers pet-friendly services, you can ensure a safe and pest-free environment for both your family and your furry companions.
If you need assistance finding a pet-safe pest control provider, feel free to ask for more information or recommendations. We serve much of eastern New Jersey surrounding New York City. Even if we can’t serve your area, we’ll know someone who can because our family has helped residents, municipalities, and businesses like yours since the 1930s.
Reliable’s team has been in Cliffside Park for five generations of Hufnagels. Edward’s grandfather, father, and sons are all involved in the arborist and landscaping businesses in Cliffside Park and the Hoboken area. Because we’re natives to this part of New Jersey, we’ve seen it all and know exactly how to care for your trees.