Vets urge dog owners to beware of 'life-threatening' symptoms that peak in September

Cute puppy with a colored rope toy in his teeth against the background of dog crate. Young goldendoo
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UK dog owners are being warned about the dangers of spider season, which could pose 'life-threatening' risks to their pets. The warning comes as September sees a rise in spider activity, with many seeking mates and shelter from the autumn cold.

As spiders invade homes, people are resorting to various methods to deter them, including insect repellents and essential oils. However, pet owners need to be cautious as these substances can be toxic to animals. Dr Anne Baccay, a veterinarian at Cat Minder, has highlighted the potential risks posed by spider deterrents to dogs and other pets. "While most insect repellents are safe when used correctly, a few can pose serious risks - especially when they're used in areas where pets are present," warns Dr Baccay.

Essential oils such as tea tree, peppermint and eucalyptus are often used for their effectiveness against spiders, but they can be harmful to dogs. To prevent toxicity, Dr Baccay advises: "To prevent this, be sure to dilute essential oils before using them. Avoid spraying them in spaces that your dog visits or in areas that they may come into contact with."

Dog owners are being urged to be cautious of the toxicity signs in their pets, as protecting them swiftly is essential, reports the Express. "Shop-bought sprays likely contain chemicals such as pyrethrin. Again, while effective at repelling spiders, these insecticides can be harmful to pets if ingested or inhaled in large amounts," the vet warned.

"Even those that are labelled as pet-safe should be used with caution. If you are using these sprays, keep your dog out of the area until the spray has dried and make sure the space is well-ventilated.

"Diatomaceous Earth (DE) is another popular spider deterrent, but again, it can be dangerous for dogs if inhaled. For this reason, only apply it to well-ventilated areas and try to opt for food-grade versions which are much safer. Any dogs with known breathing problems should be kept away from areas treated with DE."

While no one wants spiders roaming around their home, there are many products on the market to deter them. It's vital to carefully read repellent labels before use, prevent pets from interacting with chemical and essential oil products, and ensure spaces are aired out after applying any type of repellent.

For those looking for a pet-friendly way to deter spiders, a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water can be sprayed lightly on common spider areas such as doorways and windowsills. Cedarwood chips, shavings or essential oil can also serve as a natural deterrent against these eight-legged creatures.

Nic Shacklock from Online-Bedrooms shared his thoughts: "The mere thought of spiders entering millions of homes sends shivers down our spines. Spider mating season comes into full swing at the end of August through to September which means many of us could be facing an infestation."

"No one wants spiders crawling around their homes so there are a few things you can do to keep them at bay. For example, seal up any holes in the home they could potentially crawl through."