You want your house to be a safe and enjoyable space for the whole family – your dog included. Although you may have pet-proofed the inside of your home, when was the last time you evaluated your outdoor space? Is your backyard a place where you feel comfortable letting your pet roam when the family is outside? If you’re looking to revamp your yard, here are a few things to keep in mind.
Fencing
Installing a fence can be a great way to add an extra layer of protection when outdoors. There are many different types of fencing you can use, so consider the type of dog you have and what you want to achieve. Do you want a wooden plank fence that offers privacy? Think about the height and how close together the slats need to be to keep your dog from slipping through the cracks or getting stuck. If you go with a chain link fence, make sure it is durable and your dog can’t jump over the top or crawl out underneath.
Ensure that the gate stays firmly closed and locked when not in use, and consider adding an alarm so you know when it is opened. Remind your family to keep the gate closed to prevent your dog from easily escaping.
Open Space
You want to give your dog space to run and play. Too much furniture and kids’ toys, or even trees, bushes, and flower beds can keep your pet from being able to safely get out their energy. As you’re designing the layout of your yard, plan for some open space where you can play catch, set up a temporary agility course, or just let your dog run free.
Shade
Where can your dog relax and cool down when they’re outside? Do you have a shady grove of trees, a canopy or umbrella, or even a small doghouse? You’ll want to have some sort of protection from the sun and rain. Set up a spot for their water dish as well so they know where to go to get a drink outdoors; just make sure you keep it clean and fill it with fresh water.
Safe Plants
Pay attention when planting as to which plants are pet friendly. Although hydrangeas and chrysanthemums are commonly found in yards, they can be toxic to pets. Stick with safe plants like pansies, petunias, marigolds, sunflowers, or impatiens. Be cautious about any type of fertilizer or pesticide you use as well. Keep your dog out of the area after it is applied or look for products that are safe for pets.
Designated Areas
If you don’t want your dog killing your grass or ripping up your flowerbeds, create for them a small space of their own. You may put down some mulch or rocks where you want them to use the bathroom or have an open space where they are free to dig that does not have any delicate plants.
Make your backyard a spot for the whole family to enjoy together. However, it’s a good idea to never leave your dog unattended, even if your yard is fenced in. You always want to keep an eye on where they are and what they are doing. If you’re heading out of town, board your dog at Lake Wylie Pet Resort so you can have peace of mind that they’re in a safe environment with plenty of room to run and play, as well as a comfortable space to rest and relax. Reserve your dog’s spot today!