With summer here and warm, sunny days ahead, it’s the perfect time for Brits to enjoy their gardens. In fact, 42% of UK residents garden as a hobby, spending an average of two hours per week tending to their outdoor spaces.
For pet owners, however, taking care of the garden requires different considerations. It’s important to make your garden not just a place for you to indulge your green thumb, but a safe haven for your pets too.
Andrew Leal, CEO of Waggel and an expert in pet care, has provided several simple tips for keeping your garden safe and pet-friendly this summer.
Choose pet-safe plants
When picking out plants, make sure they’re safe for your pets. Some common garden plants, like lilies, azaleas, and daffodils, can be toxic to cats and dogs. Go for pet-friendly options like sunflowers, roses, and marigolds. Always check if new plants are safe before adding them to your garden.
Provide protection from the sun
Just like us, pets need protection from the sun. Make sure your garden has some shaded spots where your pets can cool off. Andrew says, “You can use trees, shrubs, or even a pet tent, and make sure to always have fresh water available to keep them hydrated.”
Create play areas
Pets love to play, so having a special play area in your garden can keep them entertained. Think about adding a sandpit for digging or some agility equipment. This will keep your pets active and prevent them from getting into trouble in other parts of the garden.
Be aware of dangers and fencing
Safety first! Good fencing is key to keeping your pets safe. Check for any gaps or broken sections regularly. Andrew advises “Keep an eye out for other garden hazards like sharp tools, chemicals, and small objects that could be swallowed.”
Think about pet-friendly features
Think about adding features that your pets will love. A shallow water feature can be a fun splash area for dogs, and a high perch can give cats a great view. Making parts of your garden pet-friendly can create a more enjoyable and safe space for them.
Keeping pets safe in your garden
Andrew highlights the importance of a pet-friendly garden, saying, “We often take for granted that our gardens are our little safe places, but they can also be dangerous for pets. Creating a pet-friendly garden doesn’t have to be difficult. If you follow these tips you can still make a fun and safe area for your pets to enjoy the summertime.”
For more information and tips visit www.waggel.co.uk.
