Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Pesticides and Herbacides

What do we know about the possible link between Pesticides and Herbacides and IMHA? We had Trugreen/Chemlawn (canceling today). Never used it on the back lawn where Summer plays, but I know, it can travel in the air. We also used ant poison in the back yard where she does play. We have fire ants, and my son is highly allergic. Just want to get a conversation started on this. It is interesting that the incidence of this has increased in recent years so much.

Carrie DFW

I don't think you will find a direct link between this. I think you have to look at the particular ingredients of each product you may use and see what the warnings are. I don't use anything in my yards. As much as I would like to have the greenest lawn or the prettiest flowers it is just not worth it to me. Perhaps there is a natural substance that you can use for your fire ants?

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Penny,I have been searching and there are those that indeed believe there is a link. A nice lawn is a big deal here in Texas. So,my hubby started the service several months ago. I know when I lived out your way, (I grew up in Rialto) it was much easier to have a decent lawn, and it was also not such a big deal. :) Fire ants are a huge problem here in Texas. Hard to get rid of them even with the strong stuff. I am sure though with diligence I will find something.

Carrie DFW

Carrie, I made a lengthy response to another owner about Promeris at the beginning of December that relates somewhat to your question. There are links to webpages in there that you might find helpful. To read this scroll down to Dec 5 and read my post in thread: Neapolitan Mastiff & Promeris & IMHA my best patrice

Patrice NYS

I won't use ANYTHING *chemical* anymore around or in the house!!! Not even air fresheners!!! Just not worth the chance especially when our dogs are genetically predisposed to these diseases!!! Pesticides, herbacides, fertilizers, cleaners, etc. are all bad IMO! Myself, I choose the health oof my furbabies over a nice lawn...and I used to use fertilizers every year but don't anymore. The grass isn't as green as it used to be but I can still lay in it and play with the dogs without worry and that's what matters most to me! Good luck with the fireants. Let me know what you find out. Did you try diatomaceous earth??? Might work cause I know it works for flees and other pests but it has to be reapplied after rainfalls! Johnny & Tessy

Johnny

Thank you Johnny and Patrice. I am with you!

Carrie DFW

Hello Carrie, I know that Round-up is extremely dangerous so never use that. My boyfriend even wanted to put in a ventless propane fireplace but I read that it can elevate carbon dioxide levels in the home. I could never put that in my home knowing that, especially with Gracie's disease. I think you are very wise to question anything that is used in your home or outside. You also have your own health to think of. Our fur babies are teaching us a valuable lesson in questioning our environments, the food we eat, the air we breathe and the products we use. Our pets are such a gift. hugs, Gwen and Gracie

Gwen R

No fertilizers on my grass, EVER! The only fertilizer is doggie doo doo. :) I pay special attention during the spring/summer/fall when people have their grass sprayed and those little flags are on their yards...I take Tillie off the sidewalk, into the street to AVOID stepping on the grass. When we get home I wash her feet off...always. Tillie also loves to EAT grass and I will not allow her to eat any grass except MINE. I do not care about grass...I care about my dog and I know all of you do as well! With Stormie I am convinced that annual vaccines caused the AIHA...totally convinced. I will never do them again much to the chagrin of my new vet (and MOST vets). She understands and she was one of the first to look at Stormie when my vet of over 25 years didn't have time to see Stormie. Mrs. Gates

Mrs. Gates Michigan

No pesticides no chemicals!! Not in the house or outside. We use only diluted bleach to clean with or vinegar. Good idea Johnny about the diatom powder. It's a natual product, although I would still use caution when in direct contact with pets. Sue & Ren

Susie Delaware

Thank you for the replies. I was never big on the lawn thing, we live in a community with an HOA, and have to keep our front lawns decent, or we get fined. Again, this was only the front lawn. Summer does not have any access to the front. But I know this stuff can drift. In the back I did use any poison, as like said my son can have a fatal reaction to fire ants. Inside I I use as little chemicals as possible. Vinegar is great in the carpet cleaner, for urine ;-) I use it, baking soda or bleach for most cleaning as well. I sure hope we did not cause this. Carrie

Carrie DFW

This thread was discussed between 28/12/2010 and 06/01/2011

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