For many pet owners, keeping the yard looking nice is a never-ending battle. Making sure your pet stays out of the garden or landscaping can be exhausting, especially if he’s young and rambunctious. Not only do you want to keep your lawn looking good, you also want to ensure your dog stays safe, which means you have to be thoughtful about what types of flowers and shrubs you plant and which fertilizer you use.
Even the most well-behaved dog can still get into trouble sometimes, especially if there are poisonous plants nearby that look tasty. It’s important to know how to keep your pup healthy when he’s playing in the yard, so do some research on what types of plants to avoid and how to take care of bugs and other pests naturally to keep your dog from getting sick.
Here are a few tips to help you get started.
Know your plants
Certain types of flowers and plants are poisonous to dogs, and there’s a long list of them depending on where you live and what type of climate naturally occurs there. Some popular breeds that should be avoided if you have a curious dog (or indoor/outdoor kitty) include daffodils, azaleas, and tulips, all of which can bloom in the spring. If your neighbors have these flowers in their landscaping, be sure to keep your pup away from their yard and seal up any holes in the fencing that might allow him to wiggle through.
Just as important as which plants are toxic are the ones that are safe, and these include breeds like the African daisy and purple basil. It’s completely possible to landscape your lawn with gorgeous color and chic shrubbery that is safe for your dog, but it might take a little research first.
Kill the pesticides
Depending on which area of the country you live in, you might have trouble from various types of bugs and snails that want to chew up your plant leaves or spread disease. Rather than using toxic chemicals to get rid of them, consider using a natural formula made with vinegar or soap. These can be highly effective and don’t leave behind a dangerous residue that your dog can accidentally ingest or bring inside on his paws.
Don’t keep your dog inside all the time
It’s understandable to want to keep your pup away from your gorgeous garden once you’ve gotten it just the way you want it, but he needs exercise and fun in the sun just as much as you do! If you don’t want your dog exploring freely in your yard or if your garden takes up much of your yard space, leaving too little room for your dog, you’re a great candidate for frequent walks and trips to a local dog park. The latter will allow him time to socialize with other four-legged pups and explore freely. This will also give you a chance to relax, knowing he won’t get into any trouble in that wide open dog-friendly space. If you’re unsure where the nearest dog park is, do a quick search to find out. Start with a site like BringFido.com, where dog parks are listed by city.
Fence in your plants
If you have veggies in your garden and don’t want your pup to get too close when he takes a potty break, use simple fencing to keep him out. Chicken wire is helpful too, especially if your dog is a jumper. It may not be the prettiest solution, but it will help your dog learn where he can and cannot go, and after a while you can probably get rid of it. Click here for more tips on keeping your lawn looking nice.
Creating a beautiful lawn and garden is every homeowner’s dream, and you don’t have to compromise what you want for the sake of your pet. There are, however, some simple ways to allow animals and plants alike to stay safe and healthy. It just takes a little planning and patience.
Article provided by Tamara at PupJobs.com
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