Thiram is a widely used chemical for repelling deer from gardens and crops. It is a fungicide that has been found to be effective as a deer repellent. However, the use of Thiram as a deer repellent comes with several negative effects, especially on pets like dogs and the environment. This blog post will explore the negative effects of Thiram and why all-natural deer repellent solutions are safer and just as effective.
Negative Effects of Thiram on Pets
Thiram is a highly toxic chemical that can be harmful to pets, especially dogs. Dogs are curious creatures that love to explore and sniff around. Thiram has a strong odor that can attract dogs, and when ingested, it can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death. According to the ASPCA, Thiram is toxic to pets, and its ingestion can result in severe gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in severe cases.
Negative Effects of Thiram on the Environment
Apart from the negative effects on pets, the use of Thiram as a deer repellent can also have adverse effects on the environment. Thiram is a non-biodegradable chemical that can persist in the environment for a long time. It can contaminate soil, water, and air, causing long-term harm to plants, animals, and humans. Thiram can also kill beneficial insects and pollinators, which are essential for maintaining the ecological balance.
All-natural Deer Repellent Solutions
All-natural deer repellent solutions are just as effective as Thiram, and they are safer for pets and the environment. These natural solutions include using scents, plants, and natural oils to repel deer. Some of the effective natural deer repellent solutions are:
Using strong scents: Strong scents like garlic, peppermint, and vinegar can repel deer. These scents can be sprayed on plants, trees, or around the garden to keep deer away. Professional formulations have the best efficiency and last longer when applied correctly.
Planting deer-resistant plants: Certain plants like lavender, rosemary, and marigold have a strong scent that can repel deer. Planting these plants around the garden can help keep deer away.
Using natural oils: Essential oils like cedarwood, cinnamon, and clove can repel deer. Various professional formulations (including granulars) can effectively repel deer when rotated and tested properly.
Installing fencing: Installing a sturdy fence around the garden can also keep deer away.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the use of Thiram as a deer repellent can have negative effects on pets like dogs and the environment. Thiram is a highly toxic chemical that can cause severe gastrointestinal irritation, vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in pets. Thiram is also non-biodegradable, and its use can contaminate soil, water, and air, causing long-term harm to plants, animals, and humans.
All-natural deer repellent solutions are just as effective as Thiram, and they are safer for pets and the environment. These natural solutions include using strong scents, planting deer-resistant plants, using natural oils, and installing fencing. By using these natural solutions, we can keep deer away from our gardens and crops without harming pets or the environment.
Sources:
ASPCA. (n.d.). Thiram. Retrieved from https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control/toxic-and-non-toxic-plants/thiram
Ontario.ca. (2022). Deer Damage and Control. Retrieved from https://www.ontario.ca/page/deer-damage-and-control
University of Connecticut Home & Garden Education Center. (2022). Deer Resistant Plants. Retrieved from https://www.ladybug.uconn.edu/FactSheets/deer-resistant-plants.php