is this harmful to animals? How long do I wait before they can come outside? Do I spray directly on the grass and tress?

We thank you for your inquiry. In regards to animals. All of our herbicides and insecticides are safe to use in households with pets. You do need to keep your pets off and out of treated area until the product has completely dried. After dry, the area is completely safe for your pets. The products should also be kept out of your pet's access. For spraying the product. Hold container 5-10 ft away from shrubs, bushes and grassy areas. Spray these areas with a slow sweeping motion at the rate of 1 to 3 seconds per cubic yard of space while moving away from the treated area.