Japanese knotweed management and treatment can pose a risk to your pets. With that fact, it is required to take necessary precautions when dealing with this invasive species to protect your cherished pets.
Japanese knotweed is well known for its potential for significant damage to property and the environment when untreated. However, there are certain myths about whether it poses risks to animals due to an alleged poisonous nature during the treatment process. Allow Solutions for Japanese Knotweed to clarify your concerns.
Is Knotweed Dangerous for Pets?
Japanese knotweed being classed as toxic due to its invasive nature and ability to cause skin irritation is a mistake often made. Contrary to popular belief, knotweed poses no significant health risks to human or animal life – including your household pets.
The sap on knotweed may cause mild allergic reactions, but they do not pose any long-term harmful effects like other plant species could. Therefore, this plant is safe to handle without causing any harmful side effects. Whilst it may not be toxic for pets, we advise that your animals not consume the plant – as it may cause irritation or other adverse side effects.
To best protect your four-legged friends, keep them away from any area where they could come into contact with Japanese knotweed and contact a knotweed removal company in Manchester to begin a treatment plan.
Identifying Knotweed
Japanese knotweed wreaks havoc on ecosystems and property values, making it essential to identify this species before it becomes a costly problem.
Knotweed resembles bamboo, known as knotweed canes, with a thick hollow stem reaching upwards of three metres tall. The leaves bear an unusual zigzag pattern along their edge, ending at pointed tips and resting flat against each other at the base.
Small creamy white blooms will appear in the late summer months and early autumn, with clusters located near the top of the plant. The most significant part lies within the extensive rhizome system, with fleshy reddish brown structures spreading rapidly underground to make removal incredibly challenging.
By recognizing these aspects, homeowners can take proactive measures towards prevention with professionally fitted root barrier treatment to prevent the spread further.
Professional Help
Japanese knotweed has proven to be extremely invasive and detrimental to the environment and properties throughout the UK. Whilst it may not pose a direct threat to pets or wildlife in the area, care still needs to be taken so that they do not ingest any leaves or plant pieces.
When considering management options for your knotweed infestation, hiring an accredited knotweed treatment specialist with insurance backing is essential for minimizing the risks of rhizome systems, as well as proper removal and disposal of waste.
Is Knotweed Dangerous for Pets – Contact the team at Solutions for Japanese Knotweed today.
