Create a Dog Friendly Back Yard

 The warm weather is here and many humans will be planning their gardens for the summertime. When strategically planning out your yard and gardens, don’t forget about your canine companion! Follow these tips for a dog friendly yard.

1)      We like to chew, eat and roll around on different plants. Ensure you don’t plant anything that is particularly toxic to dogs. For a comprehensive list of toxic plants, complete with pictures, visit the ASPCA pet-care website.

2)      Utilize organic, non toxic fertilizers, mulches and weed killers in areas where your canine will be playing.  Even just running around on a yard treated with poisonous substances can cause illness.

3)      If your dog loves digging or plowing through your gardens, consider using raised beds with wire fencing or planter pots.

4)      If you live in a suburban or rural area, take care to protect your dog from coyotes or other wildlife. A secure fence is a good deterrent for most large animals.

5)      Ensure that your fence is in good repair and is flush with the ground to prevent escape. If you have a large dog or a jumper, make sure your fence is high enough to keep him effectively contained. Make sure dog houses, wood stacks or other structures are not available for a dog to climb on in order to get over a fence.

6)      Grills can be very enticing when food is cooking. Always supervise your dog if she is running around when the grill is on.

7)      Wood decks can splinter and cut sensitive paw pads. Make sure you have your deck refinished if necessary.

8)      Be sure to effectively clean bodies of water to prevent the buildup of bacteria and pests. Routinely wash and replace the water in kiddie pools or other containers. Treat pools or garden ponds with chlorine or other appropriate treatments.

9)      Many “problem diggers” are just dogs that are hot and trying to find a cool place to lay down. Consider creating a “digging” bed with soft organic mulch and hardy bushes to provide shade.

10)   Keep grass short to reduce tick exposure. If you live in an area where you have poisonous snakes or other dangerous wildlife, critter proof your yard by removing prime habitats like rock piles and wood stacks.

11)   Always provide plenty of clean drinking water. Heat stroke and dehydration can strike quickly on warm days.

12)   Got some extra cash to spare? Add luxurious additions like dog washing stations, custom dog houses and ornamental watering holes.

Otto

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