Though dogs may be man’s best friend, they may not always be your yard’s best friend, and vice versa. In order to keep your pets happy and thriving in your yard, and to keep your yard happy and thriving around your pets, here are some pet-friendly principles that you can incorporate into your Warwick, NY landscaping.
Install a shallow water feature
Consider a fountain with a shallow pool, a rock garden with a water feature, or even a mini waterfall. Not only do these look amazing, the gentle cascading sound of running water also adds a soothing feel for when you’re out relaxing in your garden. They’re also excellent for keeping pets cool and refreshed in summer. If your dog is a swimmer, make sure the water feature is designed in such a way that it is easy for him or her to get in and out.
Consider going organic
A National Institute of Health study found that pesticides on lawns led to a 70% higher risk of malignant lymphoma in dogs, while catastrophic effects have been found in cats too. If that isn’t enough motivation to go organic when it comes to fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides, we don’t know what is.
Choose the right mulch
Cocoa mulch is a no-go when you have pets, since it often contains theobromine. This is the allergen in chocolate and other foods that makes them poisonous to our furry friends. Pick gravel, wood chips, hardwood mulch, or even shredded leaves instead.
Choose dog friendly plants
When selecting plants for your garden, you should consider the effect these can have on your pet if eaten. You might be surprised to find out that many plants can cause organ failure and even death. But you don’t necessarily have to restrict which plants you choose. Just place the harmful ones in an enclosed area that your pet can’t gain access to.
Here are some examples of plants to avoid in areas where your pet is allowed:
- Foxglove
- Iris
- Lily of the valley
- Monkshood
- Azalea
- Cyclamen
- Larkspur
- Mistletoe
- Oleander
- Rhododendron
- Delphinium
- Sago palms
- Lantana
- Juniper
- Crocus
In areas that your pet frequents, you might choose to introduce certain plants that can reduce fleas. These include mint, rosemary, chrysanthemum, lemongrass, sage, lavender and, perhaps unsurprisingly, the fleabane daisy.
Related: Plants, Edibles, Trees for Happy Dogs
Make those paths official
Many pets feel the need to prowl around, with dogs often stalking the perimeters of the yard, on patrol. You may also have noticed that your pet often follows the same paths. If you haven’t, stop by the kitchen window and watch! Unfortunately it can be very difficult to divert them from this path. Some dogs have even been known to trample right through obstacles put in their way. Instead of trying to fight instinct, why not prettify the path your dog habitually takes? Install a clear route around the perimeter of your yard, or along paths that your pets frequents with quality concrete or natural stone pavers. A simple pea-gravel path with large rocks on either side can also be attractive and add aesthetic value to your yard.