Our pets aren’t just animals—they’re family. So, when it comes to pest control, it’s only natural to worry about how treatments might affect your furry companions. “Is pest control safe for pets?” is a question we hear all the time, and for good reason. No one wants to trade a pest problem for a pet problem!
Thankfully, Sentinel Pest Control offers solutions that are effective against pests and still safe for your furry friends. Keep reading to learn more about pet-safe pest control and how you can keep your pets safe if you want to try some DIY tricks.
Is Pest Control Safe for Pets?
Pet owners are right to be cautious about pest control treatments. There are plenty of myths and misconceptions out there, so let’s clear them up. Some of the top concerns we hear include:
- Do pets need to leave the home during pest control?
- Are the chemicals used in pest control toxic to my pets?
- What happens if my pet eats a treated pest?
The good news is that today’s pest control products we use are far more advanced and safer for everyone in your home. In fact, most of the chemicals we use are less harmful to pets than common household items—did you know that table salt is actually more toxic to dogs than many pest control treatments?
Still, caution is key. While the products we use are pet-safe, we suggest preventing your pets from licking or sniffing recently treated spots. These treatments usually take between ten minutes and two hours to apply, depending on the pest, and they require an additional drying time of about two hours.
While our technicians will give you more specefic information during your pest control appointment, we still recommend housing your pet in a different area inside your home or taking them out of the house for a few hours.
What if your pet happens to munch on a bug that’s been treated? While it’s rare for pets to suffer any ill effects from eating a treated pest, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. If your pet shows any unusual symptoms like vomiting, fever, or loss of appetite, don’t hesitate to contact your vet immediately.
Many over-the-counter pesticides contain harsh chemicals that aren’t formulated with pets in mind. These products can lead to a range of health issues for your furry friend, from mild symptoms like skin irritation and nausea to more severe reactions.
That’s why it’s important to trust the experts when it comes to pet-safe pest control. Professional pest control technicians have the knowledge, tools, and experience to use products that are both effective against pests and safe for your pets.
Keeping Your Pets Safe During a Treatment
While there are DIY pest control options available, professional pest control services are designed with pet safety in mind. Store-bought pesticides can often be more harmful and less effective, posing unnecessary risks to your pets. Trusting experts like us provide you with the best products and experts with years of experience.
Before we arrive, take a moment to move your pets’ belongings, like food bowls, toys, and bedding, out of the areas scheduled for treatment. This simple step prevents these items from coming into contact with any chemicals.
After treatment, open windows and doors to ventilate the area, disperse lingering fumes, and speed up the drying process, making it safe for your pets to return to the treated areas sooner.
After the treatment is complete and your pets have returned to the treated areas, keep an eye on them for any unusual behavior. While the products we use are pet-safe, it’s always good to watch for signs of discomfort or illness. If you notice anything concerning, contact your vet immediately.
The Sentinel Approach to Pet-Safe Pest Control
At Sentinel, we protect your entire household, pets included. Here’s how we ensure that our pest control services are both effective and pet-safe:
Pet-Safe Pest Control Products
We prioritize using products specially formulated to be safe for pets. If a stronger chemical is absolutely necessary, we apply it in areas out of reach for pets and people alike. For full transparency, we provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) for all our products so you know exactly what’s being used in your home!
Secure Bait Stations & Traps
Bait stations and traps can be a risk for curious pets, so we go the extra mile to secure them in places your pets can’t reach. This can help prevent your pets from getting stuck in a glue trap or being injured by a snap trap. Plus, we strategically place these devices in areas where they’re effective against pests but out of reach of your pets.
Advance Notification
We give you plenty of notice before any major pest control service. Just like childcare, we know it can take time to make arrangements for your pets, so we’ll let you know ahead of time if you need to place them elsewhere or step outdoors for a quick walk.
Pest Control in Seattle, Washington
Whether you’re dealing with ants, roaches, spiders, or any other pests, our team is here to help. We’ll work with you to create a customized plan that targets pests and keeps your pets safe.
Don’t wait until pests become a problem! Take proactive steps now to protect your home and your pets with Sentinel’s expert pet-safe pest control. Call us today or fill out our online form to get started. Let us help you create a pest-free, pet-safe environment where everyone can thrive.