Pet Proofing Your Yard

by Blue Crew

Keep Your Pets Happy & Safe This Summer

Our furry friends enjoy lounging outside just as much as we do. With the weather warming up, they will be wanting to spend more time outdoors which means you have some work to do! Check out these tips to pet proof your yard to keep your four-legged friends happy and safe this summer.

Fence

The most important aspect of your backyard is ensuring that you have a fence around the perimeter; this keeps unwanted animals out and your pet in. Be sure there are no holes in the fence where a small dog can slip through and escape, and make sure that the fence is tall enough so a large dog can’t jump over.

In addition, it is a good idea to have a secondary fence around a swimming pool. Even if your dog is a strong swimmer, they should never be left alone or unattended around water. Be sure they know how to safely enter and exit the pool!

Choose Pet-Safe Plants

There are many plants that might be in your yard that could be posing a threat to your furry friends. Be sure to do your research before putting on your gardening gloves! Here are a few examples of common plants that could be poisonous:

Mums

Hostas

Boston and English Ivy

Hydrangeas
Oak Trees (leaves and acorns)

Tulips

Azaleas

Lilies

Aloe Vera

In addition, make sure your foliage is thorn and sticker free!

Secure Trash Cans

Keeping trash cans and other disposal bins secured and properly closed is important to keep your pets safe. If they get into the trash and ingest something they shouldn’t, the result could be fatal. This will help prevent unwanted wildlife from getting into the trash as well. Check the yard regularly for trash and other objects that could be dangerous to your pet. If you have a fire pit in your yard, never leave your dog unattended while there is an active fire or while the area is hot.

Lawn Care

Tall and unkept grass is the perfect place for ticks to live in your yard. Fleas tend to live in dark, humid places such as outdoor dog homes, decks and sheds. Routinely sweep the patio, clean under the deck and remove debris from the yard to help prevent an infestation. In addition, tall grass that rubs on your dog’s stomach can cause an allergy flareup.

If you have a need to treat your yard with chemicals, be sure to consult your veterinarian first for pet-friendly options.

Provide Water and Shelter

If your pet is going to be out in the yard for an extended amount of time, it is important for them to have access to water and shade. Dehydration and heat sickness can lead to health complications and can ultimately be fatal.