How To Paw Proof Your Yard

The world has many outside playtimes and that is not excluding our furry friends. With more lawn renovation than ever before, it is important to tackle the need of paw proofing your yard.  Harsh chemicals, poisonous plants, faded yellow spots, and so much more remain a threat to your family’s well-being. However, Spring-Green is here to share their best practices and insider tips for your lawn, your pets, and you – not necessarily in that order. Not to worry, your professional lawn care team at Spring Green is here with the answers to all the most frequently asked questions about your pets and your lawn.

Pet Proofing Your Yard FAQs

• What harmful chemicals should I avoid if I have pets? As a new pet owner, it should already be habitual for you to check your household cleaner. However, it is easy to forget about those outdoor cleaners as well. Be sure to check for harmful chemicals in products that you use to fertilize or de-weed your lawn, shrubs, and trees.
• How do I create dog-proof patios and porches? Pet proofing may be needed for those nosey pets.  Placing fencing to keep your dogs from going into areas of your yard design for your personal leisure or a growing garden is a great pet proofing tactic.
• Should I create specified dog pee spots? Dogs and cats tend to be creatures of habit. You can save yourself time and reduce the chance of damage to your lawn or hardscapes by creating pee areas. Training your pets to use that a specific area can only be beneficial. This practice will also reduce or eliminate the chance of you or a houseguest unexpectedly stepping in dog waste.
• What to do if my dogs like digging holes? If your dog is a naughty digger, it can wreak havoc on your lawn.  There are a few tricks to try to reduce the digging, including walking your dog at least twice daily to help them burn off energy. Provide them with toys to keep them occupied and reduce the time they spend alone. You may also be able to work on some simple commands with your dog and use them when you catch them beginning to dig. You may also have to block off the area that your dog is prone to dig in if your dog is persistent.
• What are dog-approved plants? Plant toxicity awareness is important for pet owners. You might be growing poisonous plants without even knowing it. If you have dogs, cats, or children, it benefits you to learn more about poisonous plants, and if possible, remove them from your yard. The ASCPA makes it easy with its poisonous plant cheat sheet.
• What are the best remedies for yellow spots? Preventing yellow spots in your lawn from dog urination might require some creative moves on your part. You may consider installing a tougher type of grass that can withstand wear and tear and, well, pee. Clover lawns may be a consideration to help prevent the yellow staining. Diluting dog urine, if you spot it in time, is another option to preventing those unsightly yellow spots.
• What lawn care practices should I follow to protect my pets? Pets love rolling around in the grass and taking naps in shady spots of your lawn, but hidden in the tall grass are more ticks and fleas. Be sure to keep your grass mowed and trim to your pets’ chances of picking up ticks and fleas.
• Should I put up a barrier around my pool? Most likely, yes. Every dog is different. Some love the water; some despise it. At the very least, you should train your dog on how to get out of the pool if it were to fall in. An even better option – put a safety fence around the pool to ensure no issues occur when you’re not home or not paying attention.

Taking care of that special family member may take a few more steps, but it is well worth it.  At Spring-Green, we understand that lawn care is a vital part to your children and pet’s safety. That is why we know how to help you create a lush and entertaining yard that is free from toxins and hazards as well as provide the tips you need to keep your pets from damaging it. Of course, dog training is not in our wheelhouse, but we’ve got the lawn care tips and service locked down. Just ask one of our professional and knowledgeable technicians for information.

Contact Spring-Green today.