I remember (watching the show in reruns as a kid) the robot as the B-9 Environmental Control Robot. On his packaging (a box or a metal cabinet, I think) you can see the name G.U.N.T.E.R., which is an acronym for General Utility Non-Theorizing Environmental Robot.
It should be your mantra whenever you apply products to the lawn. This doesn't have to be a lengthy ban. The Dog Owner's Guide suggests keeping pets off treated grass for 24 hours, as nitrogen can burn the pads of a dog's foot. The guide also recommends keeping pets indoors during application to prevent an airborne inhalation or skin contact.
When to Fertilize. During the first spring, fertilize your azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons just as the buds start to pop some color. Fertilize again, if needed, lightly in late summer but no later than 2 months prior to the first frost in your area. Late feeding could encourage new growth that might be damaged by a freeze.