Dog owners are coming to realize that many of the things they do to care for their natural grass lawns may be having a devastating effect on their pets. One of the best ways to eliminate allergens and the exposure to toxic chemicals from your dog's daily routine is to install a lawn made of artificial turf. Artificial turf does not require harsh chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides and does not produce pollen. It is also primarily dust and debris free. Artificial turf is a long lasting investment that can protect both your children and pets from potential health hazards.
Dogs Can Have Allergies Too!
Most homeowners go to great lengths to make sure their children aren't exposed to toxic chemicals or other potential allergens, but they shouldn't stop there. The number of reports of dogs and cats who experience various types of allergic reactions to lawn chemicals and products is increasingly on the rise. Dogs can be allergic to the same things humans are. Pollens, potential chemical reactions and, even exposure to certain varieties of grass can pose various problems including rashes, irritation to the eyes and upper respiratory problems.
Skin Sensitivity
Many dogs show extreme skin sensitivity when exposed to harsh chemicals. Dogs with skin sensitivity often exhibit a variety of signs and symptoms to give their owners a clue that something is just not right. A few of the more noticeable signs include:
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Weeping eyes
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Patchy hair loss
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Red, inflamed areas of bare skin
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Constant itching and scratching
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Trying to rub against rough surfaces
While mange is and insect infestations are common problems, an allergic reaction should not be ruled out. If symptoms are mild, you can try and treat the problem on your own, but once they escalate a trip to the veterinarian is in prompt order. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and provide you the medications you will need to help control the issue. Once you know if the issues are related to an allergen, you can begin to take the appropriate steps to correct the situation. If the issues are a direct result of exposure to your lawn, installing artificial turf in their dog run or throughout the entire lawn may be the answer to all of your problems.
Upper Respiratory Issues
Dogs that are allergic to airborne allergens like dust, pollen and other contaminants like the vapor from certain chemicals, can develop severe upper respiratory allergies. The eyes, nasal passages and oral tissues can become swollen and irritated causing sneezing, coughing and other symptoms. If this is the case, converting your natural grass lawn to artificial turf may be your best and only solution. While it is impossible to prevent their exposure to any pollen or dust, the removal of the natural grass from around the home will dramatically reduce the risk of a reaction. Veterinarians can provide antihistamines and decongestants to help relieve the symptoms, but the only true remedy is to eliminate the cause if at possible.
Over the last few decades, the reports of allergic reactions by both pets and children have been on the rise. Homeowners who have both children and pets are beginning to learn that converting a natural grass lawn to an artificial turf lawn is both healthier for their children and pets as well as being cost effective for their wallets. Not only does artificial grass reduce the amount of time spent on lawn maintenance, it can also increase the comfort level of all members of the family who have allergic reactions. Synthetic turf is also beneficial for the environment and reduces the risk of your family being exposed to harsh chemicals and toxins related to lawn care.
