Summer is finally here, and with it comes the need to create a pet friendly garden. From choosing the right plants to making sure there are enough places for your furry friend to play, these tips will help make your garden a paradise for all pet-owners. So whether you have a dog, cat, hamster, or rabbit, read on for tips on how to make your garden the perfect place for them!
Utilise multiple levels
It goes without saying that our beloved pets love to sit and watch the world go by. They are naturally curious, and so we should do what we can to feed this curiosity! If you are landscaping your garden, consider implementing multiple levels for your pets to explore.
For example, cats love to explore fences and sit up high watching the people below. For dogs, have a little perch they can sit on to take in their surroundings. Raised beds are also a good idea, too.
Have a safe, quiet spot in the shade
When it is warm outside, it is absolutely essential to have a dedicated spot for your pet to have a quiet moment and cool down. This should ideally be in a shaded area of the garden, and somewhere a little quieter for them to snooze.
It should also be somewhere they feel comfortable and safe – a space just for them. A large dog crate with a bowl full of water is an excellent idea, as it allows the breeze to flow through the gaps, but also allows your pet to snuggle up on their favourite blanket.
Dig up (and avoid planting) toxic plants
Some plants that are dangerous for pets include:
- Fox gloves
- Tomato plants
- Hydrangea
- Acorn
- Chrysanthemums
- Geraniums
- Marigolds
- Dahlias
Instead, consider planting more low risk plants, such as:
- Sunflowers
- Roses (though be careful of the thorns)
- Lavender
- Calendula
That said, you should also make sure to take the time to train your pet not to eat the plants just in case. You can also find an extensive list of poisonous plants.
Keep an eye on your paving
Pets paws are surprisingly sensitive. It is also true that pets love to roam around the border of the garden in order to mark their territory. This means that you must ensure that there is a soft surface for your pets to prowl around – be it grass or paving.
If you do opt for paving, however, it is important that you choose a stone that doesn’t absorb the heat – or at least can regulate temperature effectively. As temperatures are set to sore exponentially this summer, this leaves pets even more at risk of burning their paws on the pavement.
You can check to see if your paving is too hot by testing it on your own hand first. If you spot your pet licking its paws, this is also a potential sign that they have already burnt their paws on the paving.
Opt for a sturdy fence
A fence is essential to keep pets safe and secure within your property. Make sure you get a sturdy fence that won’t be damaged with force, and thus allow any escape artists the chance to go on the run!
With all these things in mind, you will have all the basics you need to ensure your garden is as suitable as possible for your pets to enjoy the summer safely.
Conclusion
With so many pet friendly gardens out there, it can be quite challenging to choose the best one for your pet. However, by following certain tips outlined above, you will be able to design a perfect pet friendly garden dedicated just for your furry friend.
So there you have it! With the tips above, you can create a pet friendly garden for your furry friend. Plus, with all the fun things that they can do in a garden, like running and playing, your little ones will never want to leave.
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