It’s important to keep your pet safe in your garden at all times of the year but with the summer upon us, it’s a great opportunity to ensure your garden is safe. Pets love to roam and explore their environment. They will poke their noses into anything that smells interesting whether its safe for them or not!
There are a number of potential hazards that could cause harm to your fur baby. This quick 7 point checklist can help you keep your pet safe in your garden this summer.
Fencing
This might seem obvious but dogs have a habit of digging holes that can sometimes become big enough for them to wriggle under existing fences. Do a walk around your fence line to ensure everything is secure and safe for your dog. A good sturdy fence will also keep out predators like foxes who can be a danger to young animals
Flowers & Plants
Choosing the right plants for your garden is important if you want to keep your pet safe. Some of the most common plants are actually toxic to animals.
These include:
- Azalea/Rhododendron
- Cherry Laurel
- Conkers and Acorns
- Daffodil
- Castor Oil Brush
- Laburnum
- Lily of the Valley
- Philodendron
- Lillies
- Yew
- Tulip
- Crocus
Fertiliser
Many fertiliser and growth products are poisonous and not just to dogs. Keeping fertilisers in a high locked cupboard will ensure that your curious cat or determined dog won’t come to harm from the toxic chemicals in these products.
Pest Control
Some creatures can wreak havoc in your garden and it’s natural you may wish to control or eradicate them. Chemical pesticides are toxic to pets and other wildlife so take special care to use natural alternatives to keep your pet safe in your garden. Sometimes the best way to control the unwanted creatures is to make your garden an inviting habitat for their natural predators. Encouraging hedgehogs and birds into your garden will keep bugs, snails and insects from destroying your precious plants.
Ponds
A pond is a great way to attract frogs and other water loving creatures but its important to consider your pets safety at the same time. Fit a guard over the top of the water to keep your pet safe in your garden while protecting the wildlife who live in it.
Shelter
We love warm summer days but your pets can quickly overheat. Ensure that you provide shelter that will give your animals shade from the sun. Trees and shrubs are perfect for this but you can also set up dedicated shady spots by draping fabric over a framework to protect smaller pets.
Poo Clean Up
It’s not the most glamorous of tasks but clearing up your pets’ toilet deposits avoids potential health hazards for pets and humans. Cats love to leave poo presents in freshly dug soil so be sure to wear gloves and wash your hands after gardening.
Before you introduce new plants into your garden, speak to an expert at your local garden centre for peace of mind. These are just some of the ways you can keep your pet safe in your garden this summer.