Zika Facts & Prevention

WHAT IS THE ZIKA VIRUS?

Zika is a virus that is primarily contracted through mosquito bites but recent cases have also been found through sexual transmission. Symptoms can include fever, rash, joint pain and conjunctivitis.

WHERE IS ZIKA MOST COMMON?

Historically Zika was only found in Africa and Southeast Asia, but recent cases around the world, including many in the United States have been found.

HOW DO I AVOID GETTING ZIKA?

There is no vaccine that prevents Zika virus. The best way to protect yourself is to use natural insect repellents, wear long sleeves and pants as well as avoid areas where Zika is most common.  Use contraceptives if you think you or your partner may have been exposed.

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5 Things All Pet Owners Should Be Composting

If you’re like many of us, you try to make decisions to reduce your carbon footprint. But have you ever thought about the ecological paw prints that your pets are leaving? The size of their paw prints largely depends on us as pet owners.

Why you should compost:

• Saves you money on fertilizer and naturally improves the soil
• Reduces landfills and saves resources
• Promotes water retention, therefore you have to water less
• Reduces the amount of chemicals that run into our water sources
  
  

What pet owners should compost:

Pet hair: Pet hair is a great source of nitrogen and can yield wonderful results in your soil. Some people add it directly to the soil before it decomposes to allow birds to use it for nesting as well. (Hint: You can empty your vacuum or dustpan into your compost bin directly after cleaning!)

Nail clippings: Nail clippings, like hair, are also a good source of nitrogen for the soil as long as they are free from polish. (That goes for humans, too.)

Pet food: If you have old or stale pet food, consider composting it instead of throwing it out this time.

Feathers: Whether you’re a bird owner or you have old feather pillows that need to be retired, adding feathers to your compost bin is easy and one of the most nitrogen rich substances.

Manure: (non-meat eaters only!) Manure from herbivores such as horses, cows, pigs, chickens, etc., contain a plethora of micro-nutrients and organic matter. This will not only aid in plant growth but will also minimize animal waste. (Note: It is not suggested that you mix cat or dog poop with your compost bin or any other meat eating animals.)

Taking these easy steps will not only help preserve our planet but also help preserve your bank account by saving you money. For more pet and Eco-safe products such as organic pesticides and mulches, visit www.cedarcide.com

 

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Petscaping: Landscaping with your pets in mind

Petscaping: Landscaping with your pets in mind. 

Maintaining a beautiful yard while being a pet owner shouldn’t be that hard. Here’s a few tips you might be missing:

Paw-Friendly Decking/Fencing
Many common deck, fence and wood treatments, such as pressure-treated wood, can cause cause adverse health effects for people and pets after long term exposure. Over time, the chemicals (which includes arsenic) used to treat the wood will eventually seep into its surroundings, exposing it to all of its toxins. Pets who chew on the wood are at an even higher risk of being exposed. If possible, use organic wood treatments such as Cedarshield, a one-time treatment that is 100% safe for people and pets.


Eliminating Brown Spots
Have you been wondering why your lawn can’t seem to stay green everywhere? Those brown spots are likely caused by too much nitrogen in your pet’s urine. Watering the area where your pet uses the bathroom can help dilute the nitrogen and keep those pesky brown spots from popping up. Also, if you fertilize your yard, try to use a reduced nitrogen fertilizer.

Beware of  Hazardous Plants
When planning to add plants to your lawn it’s important to consider which ones may be beneficial or harmful to your pets. Herbs such as Basil, Lavender and lemongrass all have benefits for your pets, while  common plants such as Azaleas, Lilies, Daffodils and Sago Palms are poisonous for them.  For a full list of hazardous plants, click here. 

Use Non-Toxic Pesticides
Many commonly used commercial and DIY pesticides have been proven dangerous to both people and pets. Symptoms such as fever, tremors, vomiting, depression, seizures,  increased heart rate and in some cases death can occur.  Using organic pesticides can safely eliminate bugs without the fear of any of dangerous side effects.

Designated Digging Areas
Many pets that are thought to be “problem diggers” are actually overheated pets just looking for a place to cool down. Make sure your pets have access to shade or a cooled area. If digging persists, try making a designated digging area and placing toys in the dirt to direct them there. After a while, most dogs will catch on and the digging in your garden will stop.

Know Your Mulch
Most people know that chocolate is poisonous for dogs but many are unaware that mulch can be just as dangerous. Cocoa mulch, which is derived from cocoa beans, contains Theobromine, the deadly toxin found in chocolate. Even small amounts can harm animals and cause side effects such as vomiting, tremors, nerve damage and more. Make sure to use organic, chemical-free mulch such as Cedar Mulch.


By paying attention to these small (but big) steps you can safely and beautifully landscape your lawn and enjoy it with your pets.

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5 Fall Lawn Tips To Start Taking Now

Seasons are changing and cooler weather is around the corner. Fall is the perfect time to prime your lawn and garden for the upcoming spring. Here’s a few easy maintenance steps you won’t want to miss:

Aerate
Over time, soil can be compacted which does not allow oxygen, water or nutrients to reach the roots. Aerating with either a manual or power aerator will create a healthier environment for grass and other plants and will allow them to grow quicker and stronger during growing season.


Mulching
Adding Mulch to your garden is one of the easiest things you can do and will yield many positive results. Mulch is beneficial for protecting young plants, preventing weed growth and moderating soil moisture. It’s important to know what type of Mulch is best for your own yard. Some Mulches, such as Cocoa Mulch, are highly toxic to pets. There are plenty of organic mulches that are safer for pets such as Cedar Mulch, which also repels snakes and scorpions and insects. (Cedar Mulch is also a natural flea, tick & mosquito deterrent!)


Boost Plant Growth
Mid-end August is the perfect time to fertilize your lawn. It’s just recovering from a long, hot summer and it’s preparing to grow for it’s big debut in the spring. By strengthening the roots now you will be sure to have a fuller, thicker yard in the spring. If you have pets or children (or care about the environment,) go with an all-natural or organic fertilizer.


Start Composting
Most people don’t realize that leaves are one of the best (and easiest)  items you can compost. When left to sit in your lawn they can grow bacteria and kill your grass. However, when composted, they can impart many nutrients into the soil. Don’t have a bin? A  compost bin can be constructed with something as simple as chicken wire and leftover lumber, just make sure that there is adequate airflow.

Knock Out Bugs
Bugs are often the most active after a long, hot summer. If you notice you have an insect problem this may be a good time to treat with pesticides. If you can, treat nature with nature and use an organic pesticide that won’t be hazardous to people or pets. There are a few ready to use organic pesticides that have been proven highly effective.

 

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