With the warmer weather finally arriving it has given many of us the chance to get into the garden. However many things that we commonly use can be toxic to our pets.

Slug pellets frequently contain the chemical metaldehyde and are generally blue or green in colour. Metaldehyde is very toxic to pets and since many dogs will eat almost anything, slug pellets should only be used with great care, keeping pets away from areas where they are used and stored.

Many gardeners also apply a thick layer of mulch to their flower beds in the Spring and Summer months. A little known, but potential lethal hazard is the use of cocoa shell mulch. Dogs are attracted to these shells by the smell, but they contain theobromine which is very poisonous to dogs. As a result, it is safer to use an alternative such as tree bark.

As a general rule, when applying anything to your garden, ALWAYS read the label carefully regarding the hazards to pets and (of course) humans.