Blog Pet-Friendly Yards: Landscaping Tips from Greenlee & Family for Safe Outdoor Spaces Aug 25, 2024

As pet owners, we all want our furry friends to enjoy outdoor spaces just as much as we do. However, creating a pet-friendly yard involves more than just installing a fence or a designated area for them to run around. It also requires careful planning when it comes to landscaping and hardscaping. At Greenlee & Family Landscaping Services, we understand the importance of creating safe and enjoyable outdoor spaces for both pets and their owners. Here are some landscaping tips to help you design a pet-friendly yard that your furry friends will love.

1. Choose Pet-Safe Plants When selecting plants for your yard, be sure to choose pet-safe varieties. Some common plants, such as lilies, azaleas, and tulips, can be toxic to pets if ingested. Opt for pet-friendly plants like sunflowers, petunias, and marigolds instead. Be sure to research each plant before adding it to your yard to ensure it's safe for your furry friends.

2. Create a Designated Potty Area To help keep your yard clean and free of messes, create a designated potty area for your pets. This can be a gravel or mulch area with a border, or even a patch of artificial turf. By training your pets to use this specific area, you can prevent them from damaging your landscaping and hardscaping features.

3. Install Pet-Friendly Hardscaping When designing your outdoor space, consider incorporating pet-friendly hardscaping features. Avoid sharp edges or materials that can get too hot in the sun, such as metal or concrete. Instead, opt for smooth stones, pavers, or wood decking that are safe for your pets to walk on. Additionally, be mindful of any small gaps that your pets could get stuck in or swallow.

4. Provide Shade and Water Just like humans, pets need access to shade and water when spending time outdoors. Make sure your yard has plenty of shady spots where your pets can cool off on hot days. Consider adding a pet-friendly water feature, such as a shallow pond or a fountain, where they can stay hydrated. Be sure to regularly clean and refill the water to keep it fresh.

5. Secure Your Yard To keep your pets safe and secure in your outdoor space, be sure to properly secure your yard with a fence or other barrier. Check for any gaps or holes that your pets could escape through, and consider installing a gate with a lock to prevent them from wandering off. You may also want to consider installing a pet-friendly electronic fence for added security.

By following these landscaping tips from Greenlee & Family Landscaping Services, you can create a pet-friendly yard that is safe, enjoyable, and beautiful for both you and your furry friends. Remember to always consider your pets' needs and behaviors when designing your outdoor space, and don't hesitate to reach out to our team for professional landscaping and hardscaping services tailored to you and your pets.