specifically, dogs or cats. It has a high chance of resulting in the following symptoms; vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal discomfort. Myotonia, ataxia, and tremors are all serious side effects of exposure to herbicides. Even if you wait 48 hours before letting your pet outside, they are still at high risk of being exposed to toxic chemicals, and so are you. When your fluffy friend is ready to go back outside, they will return with them, bringing the chemicals into your home and spreading them among family members who do so much as pet the dog.

In a recent study by Angus Murphy from the University of Maryland, they discovered varying amounts of the herbicide in the urine in different study groups of dogs. While none of the dogs physically ingested it, there was a surprising amount even found in the dogs that waited well above the suggested 48 hours to be exposed to a treated area. Waiting 3 days after an application, they found it was still very much present in the urine samples.

Toxic herbicides are not only hazardous for dogs but for all other local wildlife. This poisonous solution affects hormone regulation and the fertility of many species it comes into contact with. It’s proven to cause heart rate problems, difficulty breathing, and convulsions. Many over-the-counter weed killers also contain glyphosate, which has been linked to cancer in dogs and humans. If your dog or pet is showing any signs of distress take them to the vet right away.

In the long run, a few weeds growing here and there may not be so bad.