Pesticides vs. Maine Pests: Which is Less Harmful?

I've been living in Maine for approximately 2-months, and today, the home we are renting had the lawn treated with pesticides. The grass is shut down for 48 hours. No problem, that is, until my beautiful bride mentioned the what ifs.

What If One of Our Dogs Eats the Maine Grass with Pesticides?

Good question, honey. We live up against the woods and even though both dogs are treated and have collars, I hear having the lawn treated is still beneficial for not only the boys, but for us as well in regard to protection against ticks. Let me investigate.

I'm sold as to WHY getting your lawn treated is beneficial, but what are the negatives as my wife inquired and how do we avoid them? This is from the National Pesticide Information Center website:

To minimize the risk of harm to your pet, remove pets from any areas that you plan to treat with pesticides before applying or mixing the product. Also remove pet toys, bedding, food and water bowls from the area. Keep pets away from treated areas for the amount of time specified on the pesticide label or until any sprayed pesticides have dried completely, whichever is longer. Finally, ensure all pesticides are securely stored in locations where pets cannot access them. - NPIC

What If My Pet Has a Reaction to Pesticides Being Used in Maine?

From what I am finding, as long as you follow all the directions and instructions, e.g. my pesticide service has told us to avoid the lawn for 48 hours, then there should not be an issue and Fido can roll around in the grass all he or she wants with no issue after that time.

Even with an overabundance of caution, pet poisoning from pesticide can occur. If that does happen, call your veterinarian immediately and/or NPIC at 800-858-7378.

You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

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There are some pest control companies that offer all natural ingredient treatments, but how effective they are is up to your research and their reviews. For now, I'm going to trust my Mainer neighbors with pets and children who have been treating their lawns for years that say to simply follow the precautions, and then enjoy your pest (mostly) free grass for the summer (or for the next 30 days until another treatment is needed)!