Bone Meal Fertiliser Dangers: Keep Your Dog Safe in the Garden
Many gardeners in the UK are turning to natural products like bone meal fertiliser to nourish their plants organically. However, if you have a dog, it’s vital to understand that bone meal fertiliser, despite its natural origins, can pose significant risks to your canine companion.
This article explains what bone meal fertiliser is, why it is dangerous to dogs, how to spot symptoms of poisoning, and practical steps for keeping your dog safe when gardening.
What is bone meal fertiliser?
Bone meal is a finely ground powder made from the bones of animals slaughtered for the food chain. Used as a nutrient-rich fertiliser, it provides essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium to support healthy plant growth.
Typically sold in sacks or tubs, bone meal fertiliser is mixed into the soil to boost your garden’s fertility.
Why is bone meal fertiliser dangerous to dogs?
Bone meal fertiliser is dangerous primarily due to its high iron content, which can cause iron toxicity if ingested by dogs. Additionally, the powder may form a solid mass in the dog’s stomach, potentially causing life-threatening blockages requiring surgery.
Other risks include mould growth on improperly stored bone meal, leading to mould poisoning. The fertiliser may also contain additives or pesticides harmful to pets. Dogs predisposed to pancreatitis may develop this condition after eating bone meal.
How can you tell if your dog ate bone meal fertiliser?
Because bone meal is an animal by-product, it emits a scent some dogs find attractive, increasing the likelihood of ingestion if left accessible. Dogs may eat it directly from open bags or dig in the garden soil where it has been mixed.
What are the symptoms of bone meal poisoning in dogs?
Signs of poisoning or digestive upset after bone meal ingestion include:
- Vomiting, sometimes with blood
- Excessive drooling
- Diarrhoea
- Abdominal bloating and pain
- Lethargy or weakness
- Signs of pancreatitis such as acute abdominal pain or distress
These symptoms can range from mild to severe, depending on the amount ingested and the dog's size and health. If you suspect your dog has eaten bone meal fertiliser, contact your vet immediately and provide the product label if possible.
How is bone meal fertiliser different from bone meal dog supplements?
Bone meal supplements formulated for dogs are processed differently from garden fertilisers and intended to provide balanced calcium and phosphorus to supplement certain canine diets, especially raw-fed dogs.
Dogs should never have access to bone meal fertiliser as it’s toxic, but bone meal supplements can be safe when used correctly under veterinary advice.
How to keep your dog safe around garden fertilisers
- Choose pet-friendly fertilisers: Use organic compost or plant-based options that do not attract dogs.
- Store fertilisers securely: Always keep fertilisers in locked sheds or out of reach.
- Apply fertilisers carefully: Follow instructions and never leave open bags accessible to pets.
- Keep dogs off treated areas: Restrict your dog from garden areas for 24-48 hours after fertiliser application.
- Water in the fertiliser: This helps minimise residue that dogs might lick or ingest.
- Create dog-safe zones: Designate and fence off safe areas free from chemicals and fertilisers for your dog to play.
- Supervise your dog: Monitor them closely around newly treated soil to prevent ingestion.
What to do if your dog eats bone meal fertiliser
If your dog has ingested bone meal fertiliser, contact your vet immediately. Prompt veterinary care can help manage symptoms and prevent serious complications like gastrointestinal blockage or iron poisoning.
Keep the fertiliser packaging handy to provide details to your vet. Early recognition and treatment are critical to securing a good outcome.
By understanding the risks and taking sensible precautions, you can protect your dog while enjoying a thriving, natural garden.
Promoting responsible pet ownership ensures every dog stays safe and healthy, even when you’re indulging your love of gardening.
