Organic Fertilisers

Some pets find organic fertilisers simply irresistible, particularly those that contain blood and bone. Over the past 12 months, the Animal Poisons Helpline has received hundreds of calls for help regarding pets ingesting fertiliser. In 95% of these cases a dog was involved, and the ingested amount (when known) ranged from residue quantities up to 1 kg.

Whilst the ingestion of a few pellets around the base of a plant is to cause much harm, when given access to containers some dogs are known to gorge themselves. The ingestion of large quantities of organic fertiliser can result in severe gastroenteritis and potentially gastrointestinal obstruction.

Please keep your pet(s) safe by restricting access to fertiliser containers or packaging. Keep in mind that dogs can 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) and always water in pelletised organic fertilisers after application.

If your pet has ingested something they should not have, please phone the Animal Poisons Helpline on 1300 869 738 (AU) or 0800 869 738 (NZ) for advice. The Animal Poisons Helpline is a free service for all pet owners in Australia and New Zealand, and we can rapidly determine if your pet requires immediate veterinary assessment or can be observed at home.

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This post has been made possible by a grant from Animal Welfare Victoria.