Pet-Friendly Yards for the Dog Days of Summer

Providing a Safe Yard for your Canine Companion

Our furry companions are more than friends--they're our family. But bringing home a dog means being ready for both the good and the not-so-good of pet ownership. We talked to Tanya Johnson with Paws and Claws Humane Society to learn more.

"Do your research on the breed. Talk to wherever you're getting the dog from, if it's a humane society, a shelter, or a breeder," Johnson told us. Some dogs can be very high-energy and need a lot of space to run, while other dogs might be couch potatoes. Breed characteristics can make a dog more likely to need lots of space or to hate water, but individual dogs have their own personalities.

All dogs need exercise, but a fenced-in yard is particularly important for high-energy dogs so they can run and play. Some dogs may benefit from a privacy fence that keeps them from seeing (or jumping) out. Other dogs do better with the ability to see out of the fenced area. In any situation, it's important for dogs to have a safe, secure way to get the exercise and play they need.

There are also a few pitfalls to avoid when it comes to what you plant. Some plants are beautiful but can be dangerous or even deadly to a curious dog. "Any kind of lily is toxic to pets," Johnson told us. However, quite a few other plants can be dangerous too, from bleeding hearts to wisteria.

Keeping Your Lawn Green with a Furry Friend

While dogs are delightful, they can be quite hard on your yard. However, there are a few tips that can help you keep your lawn looking green.

First, not all grass is created equal, and some types are hardier than others. Choose a type of grass that's more resistant to damage. You can also reduce the likelihood of brown spots by cleaning up solid waste quickly and using water to dilute urine. Finally, the right kind of fertilizer is important—both to help reduce the risk of damage and because some fertilizers are dangerous to animals. Our lawn care contractors can help you manage your lawn so it stays looking beautiful.

Finally, work with your dog's habits rather than against them. Johnson shared that if your dog likes to dig, "you can get something for them to dig in so they're not wrecking your whole yard. You can definitely train them to dig in certain places. Some dogs really like to dig and [to] just give them something to do while they're out there and keep their interest is always a good idea."

Lawn Games for a Great Cause

Backyard fun is fun, but yard games with a group is even better! Be sure to check out Builders, Bags, and Brews, now registering teams for the tournament on August 12. This year's tournament benefits Paws and Claws, so be sure to bring a team or cheer on your friends!