Spring is (almost) here! Longer days, warmer weather, and blooming gardens make it the perfect season to enjoy the outdoors with your pets. But while your furry friends are excited to explore, springtime in the UK also brings hidden dangers. From garden hazards that can harm pets to curious wildlife encounters, it’s essential to know how to keep your pets safe. At Rooke’s, we’ve put together a complete guide to spring pet safety in the UK, covering toxic plants, common garden risks, and how to protect both your pets and local wildlife.
Garden Hazards Pets Should Avoid This Spring
Gardens can be a wonderland for pets, but they can also hide dangers that may not be immediately obvious.
Slug Pellets and Pesticides: Many keen gardeners reach for slug pellets or chemical sprays to protect their plants, but what you may not know is that these products are extremely toxic to pets. Dogs, cats, and rabbits can ingest these chemicals directly – or by licking treated plants or grass – and even small amounts can lead to vomiting, diarrhoea, or worse.
To keep your garden in bloom and your pets safe, consider pet-friendly alternatives such as copper barriers, organic pellets, or natural deterrents like crushed eggshells. Always read labels and store chemicals securely out of your pets’ reach.
Fertilisers and Compost: Fertilisers and compost heaps may seem harmless, but they can be dangerous to our pets. In fact, fertilisers can irritate your pet’s stomach or cause poisoning if ingested. And compost may contain mouldy scraps, sharp bones, or toxic plant material. With that in mind, it’s a good idea to keep your compost bins covered and fertilisers stored away in locked sheds.
Ponds and Water Features: Spring often encourages pets to explore ponds and fountains, but deep water, algae, or slippery edges can lead to accidents. Drinking untreated pond water may also expose pets to harmful bacteria. Rooke’s recommends fencing off water features or providing clean bowls nearby is a safe solution.
Top Toxic Plants to Keep Away From Your Pets
Many popular spring plants are harmful to pets. Knowing which plants to avoid can prevent serious health issues.
Flowers and Bulbs: Common spring blooms like daffodils, tulips, crocuses, hyacinths, and lilies are beautiful, but they are also toxic to pets. Daffodil bulbs contain lycorine which can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and drooling. And lilies are particularly dangerous for cats, with even small amounts potentially causing kidney failure.
Shrubs and Trees: Some shrubs and trees contain toxins that affect pets’ hearts or digestive systems. Yew, azalea, rhododendron, and laburnum are all best kept out of reach. Consider replacing toxic plants with pet-safe alternatives like lavender, rosemary, or sunflowers.
Edible Garden Plants: Even plants we consider edible can pose risks. Grapes, raisins, and certain berries, including holly and pyracantha, are toxic to dogs. Onions and garlic can be dangerous to both cats and dogs too. If in doubt, keep plants out of reach or consult a vet before planting.
Protecting Wildlife While Keeping Pets Safe
Spring is prime time for wildlife activity. Birds are nesting, hedgehogs emerge from hibernation, and small mammals are more visible. While pets may be curious, it’s important to manage interactions safely.
Dogs and Cats: Cats are instinctive hunters, and spring brings plenty of birds and small mammals to stalk. Encourage cats to stay indoors during peak nesting season or supervise garden time. Dogs should be kept on a lead if wildlife is present and discouraged from chasing.
Nesting Birds: Birds nesting in shrubs, trees, or garden boxes can be stressed or endangered by curious pets. Creating wildlife zones where pets aren’t allowed helps protect both birds and chicks.
Hedgehogs and Other Small Mammals: Hedgehogs, rabbits, and voles forage in gardens during spring. Avoid leaving netting, litter, or tools where small mammals could get trapped. Always check compost bins and garden shelters before allowing pets to roam freely.
Practical Tips for Pet-Safe Gardening
With some simple steps, you can enjoy your garden while keeping pets safe. Here are our top Rooke’s recommendations:
🐾 Supervise Outdoor Time – Keep an eye on pets, especially in wildlife-rich areas or gardens with chemicals.
🐾 Use Pet-Friendly Alternatives – Opt for non-toxic slug pellets, organic fertilisers, and safe plants.
🐾 Create Safe Zones – Designate areas for pets to explore safely and fence off risky parts of the garden.
🐾 Educate Household Members – Make sure everyone knows which plants, chemicals, and areas are off-limits.
🐾 Regular Health Checks – Watch for unusual behaviour including vomiting or appetite changes, and consult a vet if you are concerned.
🐾 Wildlife Protection – Supervise pets to prevent hunting behaviour and protect small mammals and nesting birds.
Rooke’s Recommended Pet Safety Products for Spring
At Rooke’s, we love helping pets enjoy the outdoors safely. A few products can make a big difference:
🐾 Interactive Toys – Keep pets mentally stimulated by providing toys both indoors and outside in the garden, helping to reduce the risk of them nibbling on plants or chemicals.
🐾 Safe Chews and Treats – Distract pets from dangerous garden items with tasty, engaging alternatives.
🐾 Pet First Aid Kits – Be ready for minor accidents or ingestion incidents with a well-stocked kit at home. From antiseptic sprays and pet plasters to antibacterial powders and bandages, having everything on hand gives peace of mind—and at Rooke’s, we have all the supplies you need to put your kit together.
🐾 Outdoor Enrichment Tools – Create designated safe play areas with tunnels, toys, and agility items to encourage safe exploration.
These products can help your pets enjoy spring safely while also protecting wildlife – and preventing garden mishaps.
Enjoy Spring Outdoors Safely With Your Pets
Spring is a season of exploration, growth, and outdoor fun – for everyone! At Rooke’s, we’re here to help make your garden a safe and enriching space. From advice on pet-friendly gardening to safe toys and enrichment, our team can guide you in keeping your four-legged friends happy, healthy, and safe this spring.