6 Ways to Keep Your Yard Pet-Friendly this Summer

Breathe it in. Fresh air and sunshine! Spring is here and summer is already just around the corner. This means that we are getting our yards ready for outdoor activities, planting our gardens, picking out which flowers we will include in the landscape this year. It also means something else, more outside playtime for our pups! While it can be easy to let our furry loved ones outside without another thought to their environment, there are several things we should keep in mind before they are free to sniff, roll and explore the greenspace. 

1. Install a fence or inspect an existing fence. If you have an existing fence, inspect it to be sure it is secured into the ground and look for any spaces where your pup may be able to get out. It is important to consider the height of your fence as well if your pet is one that could easily jump over. If you're planning to install a new fence or underground fence, have the company come inspect your property first to be sure all points are covered.
   
   
2. Choose only pet-friendly plants. Teleflora has a list of toxic and non-toxic plants and flowers here. You can also ask your local garden center for the best selection they carry too!
   
   
3. Keep your lawn at a decent length. Try to avoid cutting your grass too short. An optimal length is typically 3 inches. This will help strengthen the root system giving way to healthier grass and a softer bed for your pup to roll around on. 
   
   
4. Provide shade and water. It may seem like your pet wants to keep going on hot summer days, which they may, but it’s important to protect them. If the temperatures get too high, the best place for them is inside where they have their BrilliantPad! When they are lounging outside with you, help them to stay hydrated with a bowl of cool water and plenty of shade to protect them from the sun. Skin cancer can affect our dogs too, so preventing them from the sun’s rays is just as important. 
   
   
5. Avoid letting pets near treated parts of the lawn. If you have your lawn treated, ask your provider how long until it is safe to let your pet roam free. Even after the first 24 hours, it is a good idea to wash their paws to avoid any chemicals from staying with them.
   
   
6. Purchase a tick collar. Flea & tick collars are a preventative method of protecting your pet against lime disease and other harmful parasites. This can be used in conjunction with other prevention medicines like Frontline to increase effectiveness. Ask your veterinarian for their recommendations.