This article was written by Sarah Hollenbeck from Siege Media.
Once you get a pet, you may notice that certain things in your life start to change. You might find yourself searching for fun things to do with your pet, getting outside more, or just in a happier mood.
Many pet owners may also start making changes to their homes to better suit their pet’s needs. Some people may even pet-proof their homes for pet-friendly living.
This effort doesn’t always stop inside the home as pet owners also want to treat their pets to a fun and safe outdoor environment. You can achieve this by petscaping your yard.
The art of petscaping
Petscaping is the practice of creating a safe outdoor environment for your pet to play and relax in. These changes to your outdoor space can be as minimal or creative as you want them to be.
Whether you are removing any toxic plants or adding fun toys for your pet to enjoy, petscaping is a great way to add enjoyment to your pet’s everyday life.
4 fun tips for petscaping your yard
Continue reading to discover fun ways to turn your yard into the perfect pet play area!
1. Create a pet-friendly layout
Before you make any changes to your outdoor space, it is important to consider the layout that you want to achieve. This can be specific to your pet and its unique traits.
If you have an energetic pup, you will want to leave a large space for them to play and run around in. If you have a cat that loves sleeping in the sun, be sure to leave them a sunny spot for lounging.
2. Use durable materials
As you know, having a pet can lead to some occasional wear and tear on things around the house. The same goes for your outdoor space. Highly trafficked walkways can become torn up over time, especially if you have a larger pet.
To prevent this, you can use these pet-friendly materials:
- Concrete
- Masonry
- Paver stones
- Pebbles
If there are certain areas that you would like to keep off-limits for your pet, consider using wooden, metal, or wire fencing.
3. Add safe plants and flowers
Whether you have the space for a garden or would like to add some potted plants, be sure to only use plants that are safe for your pet.
Plants that are dangerous to your pet include:
- Foxglove
- Elephant ears
- Ivy
- Snake plant
If you have any of these plants in your yard, be sure to remove them immediately.
Instead, plant these safe alternatives:
- Sunflowers
- Gerbera daisies
- Roses
- Bermuda grass
By ensuring that there are no toxic plants in your yard, you can sit back and relax while your pets explore and have fun.
4. Add entertaining features
Most pets long for the opportunity to go outside. By including these fun additions, you are sure to have a yard that will keep your pet occupied for hours of playtime.
Fun backyard additions include:
- An agility/obstacle course
- A small swimming pool or splash pad
- A multi-level cat tree
- A pet house
- An enclosed catio
- A sandbox
Don’t have the space for any of these? No problem! Instead, add some of your pet’s favorite toys to keep them entertained.
Protecting your new outdoor space
Now that you and your pet can enjoy the perfect outdoor space, your home insurance policy is probably the last thing you are thinking about. By informing your home insurance provider of any changes you have made to your property, you can ensure your hard work is protected.
That way, if a bad storm destroys your new pet house or splash pad, you can get the help you need. Now that everything is protected, you and your furry friend can enjoy the outdoors together for many years to come.
Looking for more ideas?
Take a look at this fun infographic for more ideas on how you can petscape your yard!
* This blog is designed to be a community where pet owners can learn and share. The views expressed in each post are the opinion of the author and not necessarily endorsed by Pawjourr. Always consult your veterinarian for professional advice.
