While summer is fast coming to an end, that doesn't mean that we are ditching our gardens and yards. In fact, for a lot of people, this is when things come together for the rest of the season and to get your garden or yard ready for winter. And if you are a pet owner, planning your outdoor space to be safe for your furry friends is just as important as what you are doing to the yard and garden areas.
Thanks to Trusted Housesitters, we know that it is entirely possible to create an outdoor space that is not only safe for pets, but also quite beautiful. And with the help of these tips from expert Nathan Thorne, you can have a yard that is showstopping for you and your dog or cat.
While Thorne did share a few different tips, we are focusing on the three that seem to be the most interesting (at least for us).
3 Tips for pet owners looking to have a gorgeous outdoor space
"Choose Elevated Gardening for a Win-Win Solution"
Having an elevated garden can create a relatively unique experience for pet owners. Not only does it allow you to safely plant any number of flowers, vegetables and fruits, but you can do it without having to worry about your pet. According to Nathan Thorne, "It's a way to keep garden plants away from curious pets and prevent them from trampling or digging up more delicate plants." And honestly, you can create some interesting designs in your garden and yard this way as well.
"Work in Interactive Elements"
Your pet lives here too and they deserve to enjoy your garden or yard just like you do. So having aspects of the outdoor area that works for them is just as important as how and what you plant. As Thorne explains, "Include pet-friendly toys and agility equipment like tunnels, ramps, or a selection of small obstacle games to play with the dogs and exercise." Even just having an area for them to run around with a ball with is key to making this an area that they can enjoy as well.
"Be Smart with Landscaping"
This might seem obvious, but being strategic when planning your yard is important. Knowing what is safe for your pet, as well as what you actually want can go a long way to making everything come together the way you want and need.
A specific tip that the expert has for us is to, "Use pet-safe materials on walkways and edges such as gravel and smooth stones. This will prevent pets from stepping on sensitive plants and provide clear areas for them to walk and play." And it makes perfect sense both for our pets and ourselves. What if you want to walk in your own yard barefoot? Then it needs to be done right for you too.
We love knowing that we can have a beautiful yard and one that is also pet safe. And while it may take some additional thought and planning, there is nothing wrong with that if it means a beautiful yard that the whole family can enjoy.