It's lovely to have a furry friend to snuggle up to and keep you warm on cold winter nights, but when you're not home sometimes their anxiety can leave the garden a mess.
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Expert Matt Leacy said things to consider for your garden when you've welcomed a new ball of fun into your life (or perhaps your old canine just likes to chew or destroy things) are space, toning down the hedge manicures and throwing out those peace lilies which can be fatal to dogs.
"The list of plants that can be dangerous to your animals is actually quite long, so I recommend checking the RSPCA's website to review the most up to date list of what not to use" said Matt, the founder of Landart.
"On the positive side there's also plants such as rosemary, wormwood and other fragrant herbs that are not only pet friendly but are actually beneficial to your dog that can be included - and for cats you can't go passed catnip."
Top plants to avoid are Lillies that are very toxic to cats in particular, as well as many varieties of succulents, azaleas and rhododendrons, tulips, hyacinths and oleander.
A more natural looking garden, with large groups of mixed plantings like ornamental grasses and low lying hardy shrubs like raphiolepis, can trick the eye to overlook holes and damaged plants that Fido may have enjoyed.
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If your dog is a digger Matt recommends architectural, structural plants such as aloes or agaves that are little more solid in form and can even be prickly to deter your dog or puppy from getting too close.
"When your dog is young and untrained it's a great idea to allocate a space that is purely for them," Matt said.
"It will save the entire garden being trashed, and you have a smaller space that will require rehab when your pet has outgrown or been trained out of their bad habits."
Other points to consider to keep you - and your doggy - happy are providing shade and shelter (especially for pups who sleep outdoors) like trees and garden umbrellas, plus adequate fencing to stop doggies running away.
"If you don't have the space to plant trees into garden beds you can find plenty of trees that thrive in pots. The advantage of pots is they also stop any worry about invasive roots causing damage," said Matt.
"Dogs love watching the world go by so if you're able ... [install] a doggy porthole or window or even clear Perspex or a viewing bubble so your dog can get his nosey fix into the outside world. The more your dog is entertained the less it's likely it is to dig in your garden as well."
Matt Leacy's top tips for a pet friendly oasis:
- Utilise materials that are pet-safe and durable such as pavers and tiles, and just as important are easy to clean and don't stain from the wear and tear of your pet will ensure your gardens stays looking good well into the future,
- Incorporate designated play areas for exercise and where the dogs can be outside and still be part of family life,
- Provide shade and shelter to protect pets from harsh weather conditions, especially in summer and winter,
- Select pet-friendly plants that are non-toxic and safe for younger pets who are prone to rough play and digging or chewing is important,
- Incorporate pet-friendly water features that also add ambience for humans, such as shallow ponds or fountains, where pets can cool off and drink from is also important,
- Design walkways that give your animals a natural pathway to explore the garden without coming across sharp rocks or prickles.
www.landart.com.au
Desiree Savage
At the helm of Australia's premier publication for people aged over 55, covering hard hitting issues, travel, lifestyle and entertainment. Got a hot tip? Email me - edit@TheSenior.com.au
At the helm of Australia's premier publication for people aged over 55, covering hard hitting issues, travel, lifestyle and entertainment. Got a hot tip? Email me - edit@TheSenior.com.au
