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22 Essential Tips For Creating a Pet-Friendly Outdoor Space This Summer

pet-friendly garden
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Now that the weather is warmer and the sky is clearer, we all want to spend as much time as possible outside – and the same goes for our furry family members (or any other pet forr that matter.) Here are 23 tips for a pet-friendly garden to make sure that your garden isn’t only safe for your pets but also makes it an even more fun adventure for them.

1. Fence It In

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Secure fencing is a must to keep pets in and unwanted visitors out. Ensure there are no escape routes at the bottom for smaller pets like cats and that the height is appropriate for jumpers like dogs.

2. Paws and Reflect: Pet-Friendly Surfacing

dogs
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Opt for paw-friendly surfaces such as grass, mulch, or smooth pebbles, which are gentle on pet paws and can handle the wear and tear of active animals.

3. Shady Retreats

garden with parasol
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Create plenty of shaded areas where pets can cool off on hot days. Trees, overhead tarps, or pet houses provide great protection from the sun.

4. Water World

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Especially in warmer climates, ensure there are several accessible water stations for pets to stay hydrated. Consider a shallow pond for ducks or a bird bath that serves both aesthetic and functional purposes.

5. Toxin-Free Territory

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Use pet-safe fertilizers and pesticides only. Many common garden treatments can be harmful to animals, so always check the labels for pet safety.

6. Watch Your Plants

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Choose non-toxic plants that are safe for all types of pets. Some common plants can be surprisingly dangerous to animals.

7. Comfort Zone: Soft Bedding

cat on couch
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For areas where pets like to rest, provide comfortable bedding materials that are easy to clean and replace, such as straw for chickens or washable pet beds for dogs and cats.

8. The Great Escape: Pathways for Exploration

ducks
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Design pathways that allow your pets to explore safely around the garden without damaging your plants.

9. Pet-Proof Barriers

chickens in garden
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Especially for smaller pets, make sure garden ponds or pools have barriers to prevent falls or unintended swims.

10. Sniff and Find: Enrichment Features

cats
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Add features like agility obstacles for dogs, climbing structures for cats, or pecking treats for chickens to keep your pets engaged and active.

11. Feeding Frenzy

cats
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Set up dedicated feeding areas that are clean, protected from wildlife, and away from the house to keep messes contained.

12. Pet Patrol: Regular Maintenance

dog in garden
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Regularly check your garden for hazards like sharp objects, holes, or toxic mushrooms that can pop up overnight.

13. Fire Pit Safety

fire pit
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If you have a fire pit or barbecue area, make sure it’s pet-proofed to prevent curious animals from getting too close.

14. Waste Not: Cleanup Stations

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Include designated areas for pet waste that are easy to access and maintain. This keeps the garden clean and sanitary.

15. Weather-Proofing

dog house
Image by Jane Shnipelson via Unsplash

Ensure all outdoor pet structures are weather-proof and provide adequate shelter from rain, wind, and extreme temperatures.

16. Digging Deterrents

dog digging in garden
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For pets that like to dig, designate a special area for digging that won’t disrupt the rest of your garden. It keeps them happy and your plants safe.

17. Keep it Quaint: Avoid Clutter

dog in garden
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Minimize clutter in your garden to avoid creating hiding spots for pests that might endanger your pets.

18. Lighting the Way

solar power light in garden
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Include safe, low-voltage lighting to keep the area well-lit for evening trips outside.

19. Pet-friendly Decor

ducklings in garden
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Choose decorations that are not only pretty but also safe and sturdy enough to withstand curious pets.

20. Natural Pest Control

chicken
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Encourage natural predators like birds that help control pests that could be harmful to your pets.

21. Smooth Moves: Check for Sharp Edges

pet-friendly garden
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Regularly inspect your garden for any sharp edges on fences, decorations, or structures that can injure your pets.

22. Community Spaces

cat and dog
Image by Krista Magulsone via Unsplash

If you have multiple types of pets, create zones in your garden where each can enjoy their own space without encroaching on the other’s territory.

Conclusion

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Man digging in the soil. Image via Depositphotos

All in all, there are so many ways to make your garden a pet-friendly place and a great hang-out spot for any and all creatures in your family. It’s great for both soul and body to spend as much time outside so let’s start cracking on some garden projects!