It's rare, but possible, to kill animals with lawn pesticides. In reality, if you apply chemicals correctly, there shouldn't be a problem. Birds may be poisoned because they mistake chemical granules for seeds, and there is always a possibility of a bird eating a grub killed by an insecticide, with unknown effect.
Owners often expose their animals to chemicals with flea collars, flea dips, and injections, but a lawn care chemical could push the animal over the limit if it is immunocompromised or absorbs a sublethal or lethal dose.
Problems rarely occur from a normal lawn treatment. To avoid animal poisoning:
* Never apply pesticides or other lawn chemicals if pets are in the yard.
* Keep pets out of the yard until the application is dry (as per label instructions).
* Empty and turn over all feeding bowls, water dishes, and bird baths.
* Don't feed or water animals outside until after a rain or irrigation to further reduce residues.
* Water in the granules thoroughly (again, follow the label instructions).
* Avoid the creation of runoff puddles (this may concentrate the chemicals).
* Avoid application of insecticide formulations near bird feeders.
You will minimize hazard and risk, and follow the law, if you apply pesticides according to the label instructions. Never develop your own concoctions and dilution rates, and always dispose of excess pesticides as per the label instructions.
Online Resources:
Environmental Protection Agency
