Over the warmer months, the Animal Poisons Helpline receives a large number of calls about pets that have ingested organic fertiliser. Organic fertiliser is typically made of different types of manures, blood, bone and other meals and as such is highly attractive to dogs. If dogs are allowed access to organic fertiliser packaging, they can eat large amounts of product very quickly. Dogs are also frequently attracted to garden areas where organic fertiliser has recently been used. Ingestion of organic fertiliser can result in variable degrees of gastroenteritis and less frequently gastrointestinal obstruction or even pancreatitis.

As you prepare your garden for the warmer months ahead, take a moment to consider your pets:

✅ Never allow pets access to fertiliser containers or packaging. Keep in mind that dogs find organic fertiliser highly appetising and will readily chew through packaging, so they need to be stored out of reach.

✅ Apply fertiliser as per the manufacturer’s recommendations (do not use excessive amounts).

✅ Water in organic fertiliser after application where possible to reduce odour.

✅ Supervise your dog when first letting them back into an area where organic fertiliser has recently been used.

✅ Avoid using organic fertiliser around spring bulbs (dogs will dig up the organic fertiliser and will often find these bulbs and eat them!).

If your pet has ingested something they should not have, you can phone the Animal Poisons Helpline on ☎️ 1300 869 738 (AU), 0800 869 738 (NZ) , 3106 4216 (SG), (917) 722-5958 (US) or +1917-722-5958 (CA) for advice. The Animal Poisons Helpline provides a free service for all pet owners in Australia, and can rapidly determine if your pet requires immediate veterinary assessment or can be observed at home.

Don’t miss the next pet poisons alert. Visit animalpoisons.com.au/stay-up-to-date to subscribe to our mailing list and receive updates and alerts directly to your inbox. If you are a member of a veterinary team in Australia, New Zealand or Singapore, you can join the Animal Poisons Centre For Vets Facebook group which is regularly updated with toxicology tidbits and poisoning trends.