Would you believe us if we told you that it is still possible to have a nice garden even though you have pets? All it takes is a bit of imagination, some careful planning, and a little investing, and your garden can look just as trendy as it would if you didn’t have a pet to consider.

In this blog, we’ll share some tips on creating a new look in your garden while keeping your pet in mind.

 

Choosing safe plants and materials

The first and most important thing to consider when redesigning your garden with a furry friend in mind is plants and materials harmful to your pet. We know that your pets are a big part of your family, so the last thing you want to do is add any potential risks to their health.

Dogs, cats, rabbits, and guinea pigs all have different types of plants and materials that pose risks to their health, so it’s essential to research these differences relevant to your pet. Here are some common plants to avoid that are toxic to most animals:

• Foxglove
• Daffodils
• Crocuses
• Tulips
• Azaleas
• Lilies
• Lily of the Valley

It’s also worth noting that if you plan to use any materials such as woodchipping on areas of your garden, certain types of wood are toxic to animals, and woodchipping produced for landscaping is often treated with harmful chemicals to preserve the wood, which is less than ideal for use in gardens that are home to pets and wildlife. You should always check with the provider if and what chemicals have been used to treat the wood.

 

Choosing a layout for your garden

Choosing the layout of your garden can be half the issue when it comes to redesigning—especially if you find it hard to visualise. If you are struggling with ideas for what you’d like it to look like, consider these points to help create a vision.

Your pet’s behaviours can help begin to shape the layout of your garden:

Dogs love to run and play, so you should ensure that you have a nice flat surface area of lawn that your dog can run around to their heart’s content.

Cats have a natural instinct is to climb and jump, so you should incorporate this into your garden design with some levels along your fencing or trees that they can explore.

Rabbits love to dig and forage. Can you add specific dig and forage areas for your hoppy friend? (This is also great for dogs who love to dig!)

Remember to think about areas for humans, too!

If you enjoy tending to your garden and plants but are worried that your pet may dig or ruin them, consider using raised bed edging to add some height to your garden with raised flower beds.

If a nice seating area where you can sit and enjoy the summer evening while watching over your pet sounds like your little piece of heaven, consider adding a little patio area with a pergola to add some structure to the garden.

 

Adding in pet-friendly features

Paths help to lead your eyes through your garden and can add a little something extra. Stone paths look great but can make your pets’ paws sore. Using paved paths can help keep your pet’s nails down. It won’t mean you will never have to clip them, but it can definitely help.

Ponds are hazardous for pets that don’t know how to navigate them, even more so if you use chemicals to maintain them. If your pond is just a natural wildlife pond, you could use a shoreline (gradient depth) so that if your pet manages to fall in, they can find their way out easily.

If you don’t mind a bit of garden maintenance, adding natural shade with bushes and trees is a great way to keep your pet cool during those warmer days while encouraging wildlife to your garden.

Final thoughts

Your garden is an extension of your home that all family members, including your pets, should enjoy. If your garden needs attention but you’re stuck for ideas, redesigning with your pet in mind can help you decide what to do with the space. It also creates a safe space outdoors for both you and your four-legged best friend to enjoy and adds value to your family home should you ever decide to sell.