Pets are family and deserve a safe, comfortable play area around your home. But outdoor environments contain an abundance of potential hazards for your furry companion, from highly toxic shrubbery to speeding vehicles and petnappers. Thankfully, ensuring your yard or garden is secure and has all the necessary safety features is straightforward. Simply follow these best practices and you’ll have a pet-friendly backyard in no time.
Select a Suitable Ground Cover
Your yard is probably covered in lawn grass, which is generally safe for pets but will likely deteriorate quickly from all the running and rolling around. The wear will occur even quicker if you have dogs, as they love to dig in the ground — plus, their pee can cause brown spots in the grass. Consider installing a more durable ground cover like clover or Buffalo Grass.
Artificial turf is another low-maintenance option that doesn't require tending and will not turn brown where your dog urinates. As a bonus, it may also prevent your dog from digging. Expect to pay between $5.45 and $20 per square foot for a synthetic lawn.
Set Up a Sturdy Fence
Pets need plenty of space to run and romp, especially when they get the zoomies. Installing a solid fence will let your four-legged friends play freely in a safe, enclosed area, minimizing the risk of them wandering off and being picked up by predators or petnappers. Fencing is also crucial for preventing traffic accidents, which claim over 1.2 million dogs and 5.4 million cats yearly.
If you’re not ready to invest in a fence, consider enclosing your yard with natural barriers like tough shrubs or wood piles. Just make sure the wall is tall enough to prevent your pet from jumping over it and strong enough to prevent it from digging underneath.
Get Rid of Toxic Plants
Certain plants add a burst of color to your yard but can be poisonous when ingested by pets. Common examples include Amaryllis, tulips and lilies. These beautiful flowers showcase brilliant red and pink colors that immediately draw attention. Unfortunately for cats and dogs, eating these plants can cause any number of complications, including drooling, vomiting, diarrhea and even convulsions.
The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends contacting your vet right away if you suspect your pet has consumed something toxic. Take a picture of the plant for easier diagnosis. The ASPCA also offers a 24-hour Poison Control Center hotline at 888-426-4435.
Implement Pest Control Measures
Taking proactive measures to keep mosquitos, fleas and ticks out of your yard is essential to maintaining a safe space for your pets. Begin by clearing away debris and eliminating all standing water nearby. Whatever measures you take, remember to avoid using harsh chemicals — always insist on organic, pet-safe options.
Spreading cedar chip mulch around the play area can help repel fleas naturally. To prevent snakes from entering your yard, inspect the grounds frequently for burrow areas or foundation cracks. You can also mix clove and cinnamon oil and spray it around as a natural deterrent. Finally, ensure your pet is up to date on its parasite control medication.
Remove Physical Hazards
Frail hanging branches, sharp landscaping gear and gardening tools in your yard can threaten your pet’s safety and well-being. Trim all nearby trees regularly to prevent branches from snapping and falling on them while playing outdoors. Store all equipment safely away from where your furry friends frequent the most.
Making Your Yard Safe for Pets
Creating a safe outdoor environment for your pets is a great way to keep them healthy and happy. By following these steps, you can transform your yard into a secure, functional space you’ll both enjoy for years to come.
Jack Shaw is a writer and editor for the lifestyle magazine Modded, as well as a car enthusiast and lover of nature. His writings on home design and renovations have been published on sites like CADdetails, A House in the Hills, House 2 Home Organizing and more. Feel free to reach out to me via LinkedIn.
