How to create a pet-friendly garden

With spring in the air we’re all looking forward to spending more time in our gardens.

Spending time together in the garden can be a great way to exercise and have fun with your pet. Charity Blue Cross has put together some top tips on making sure the space is a fun and safe one for you and your four legged companion to enjoy all year round.

Use a sand pit filled with soil, ripped up paper or safely sized balls so your dog can dig for treats.

A small paddling pool can also provide a safe place for them to swim or paddle.   

Many cats love to climb. Cats like to sit up high, so consider putting up platforms for them. If there are lots of cats in the area provide several so a neighbour’s cat can’t glare down at your pet.

Provide tunnels for your bunnies and guinea pigs to explore.

You might find you have spare space in your flower bed and want to try growing something for your pet. 

For dogs you could try growing your own vegetables which you can give to them, or there are some plants that they can find mentally stimulating too such as lavender and rosemary, while for cats they like catnip, catmint, honeysuckle and Cat Grass. 

If you have rabbits or guinea pigs you could grow herbs for them, or give them branches from untreated safe trees such as willow or apple trees to help keep their teeth healthy and brains active. 

Make sure that any toxic plants are removed from your garden to keep your pets safe. 

You should always make sure any gates or fences are secure so your pet can’t escape or injure themselves. 

For dogs ideally solid six-foot fences should be used, especially for larger dogs.

For rabbits and guinea pigs a secure exercise run with a shelter on the lawn is best, keeping them safe from predators. The run should allow have enough space to run around and stretch up on their back and to dig.

Many slug pellets can be toxic, which includes some described as safe, so stick to barriers such as slug traps or copper tape.   

Slugs and snails can also infect dogs with lungworm, a dangerous parasite. Talk to your vet about the best parasite treatment to keep your dog safe. 

Avoid leaving pet toys and bowls outside and always wash them carefully if you spot any slime trails on them. 

Fertiliser and weed killers are toxic to pets, while lawn feed and moss killer may also irritate your pet’s paws and cause stomach upsets so are best avoided. 

If you do decide to use chemicals, make sure: 

While they’re a great way to encourage wildlife into your garden, ponds can prove a risk as not all pets can swim and could get into trouble if they fall in and aren’t able to escape.   

You can cover your pond with mesh or fence it off, or also include a ramp which can act as steps to help any pets or wildlife escape from the water. 

Stings can cause an allergic reaction and if your pet does get stung you’ll often notice swelling of their feet, eyelids and face. You should contact your vet immediately if you believe your pet has been stung. 

There are obvious risks from BBQS, with the hot coals and flames, but did you know the smoke can also irritate your pet’s airway? 

Food, skewers or hot cooking tools should also be kept well out of reach of your pet. 

Many of us love to be out in the sunshine but keep an eye on your pet during any hot weather spells and ensure they can get inside your home should they want to go and relax in the cool and make sure they have access to clean water to drink. 

For more pet advice visit bluecross.org.uk

Read more: 10 Ways to create a hedgehog-friendly garden

Read more: Attract birds to your garden

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