3 EASY WAYS TO PET-PROOF YOUR GARDEN

With the average plot size of new properties shrinking, having a beautiful back garden is a big attraction for potential buyers. But, if you’re a pet parent, maintaining a back-garden might be easier said than done. To pet-proof your garden, you need a double-sided approach: on the one side, you’ll need to protect your garden against your pet; on the other, you’ll need to protect your pet against your garden.

If you’re unsure of the risks your garden and pet pose to each other, below are a few tips for peaceful co-existence between the two:

1. Pet-proof your garden through careful planting
Be very selective when choosing what to plant in your backyard. Certain plants (such as lilies and daffodils) and fertilizers (such as fish meal and cocoa bean mulch) are actually toxic if consumed by pets. Others (such as citrus or chilli plants) can act as natural repellents that will keep your pet out of your flowerbeds. Do your research beforehand or chat with an expert at your local garden store to find out which is which.

2. Create a pet-proof play zone
You should make it clear to your pet which areas are out of bounds and which are entirely their own. For example, you can put up decorative flowerbed walls to keep your pets out of your garden beds. You can also create a designated sandpit and leave your pet’s chew toys inside to let Fluffy know that this is his space to dig and play as he pleases.

3. Get pet appropriate furniture for your garden
To keep your pet from chewing up your outdoor furniture, avoid wooden deck chairs and tables and opt instead for pet-approved materials, such as aluminium or iron furniture. It might also help to set up a pet bed next to your outdoor set so that your furry companion has a spot of their own.   

However you choose to pet-proof your garden, never sacrifice your pet’s health and wellness to keep your garden in good condition. Responsible pet parents would rather see their garden somewhat unkept than risk their pet getting hurt on spiked flowerbed walls or dangerous pet-repellents. If your space won’t allow for the changes to create an aesthetically pleasing garden and a happy, healthy pet, start the search for your new pet- and plant-friendly home.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to mention to your real estate agent that a big backyard is nonnegotiable.