How to Create a Pet-Friendly Garden: Tips for Safe Outdoor Spaces
Our gardens are a place of relaxation and fun for the whole family, pets included. However, many common plants, products, and features we enjoy can pose unexpected risks to our four-legged friends. As a vet, I often see cases where curious dogs and cats have encountered trouble in the garden, sometimes with serious consequences.
With a little planning, it’s easy to create a garden that’s both beautiful and pet-friendly. Here’s what to look out for and how you can make your outdoor space a safer place for your pets to enjoy.
Plants to Watch Out For
Many popular garden plants are toxic to pets if eaten. Some of the most common offenders include:
● Lily varieties: Lilies are extremely toxic to cats, even if eaten in small amounts they can cause kidney failure.
● Daffodils: The bulbs are particularly dangerous and can cause vomiting, diarrhoea, and even heart problems.
● Foxglove: Beautiful but deadly, if ingested foxglove affects the heart and can be fatal.
● Tomato plants: Unripe tomatoes and the plant itself can cause gastrointestinal upset in dogs and cats.
If you think your pet may have eaten any toxic plants, contact your vet immediately for advice. Prompt treatment can make a big difference!
Top Tip: Choose pet-safe plants like sunflowers, lavender, or rosemary. I also recommend you always research new plants before adding them to your garden.
Garden Products and Chemicals
Fertilisers, weedkillers, and slug pellets often contain chemicals that are highly toxic to pets. Even small amounts can cause poisoning. Always store garden products securely and look for pet-safe alternatives where possible.
Top Tip: After treating your lawn or plants, keep pets off the area for the recommended period, and rinse down any surfaces if needed.
Hidden Hazards
It’s not just plants and products to be mindful of—your garden layout can create risks too:
● Ponds and water features: Curious pets can fall in, especially young or elderly animals.
● Sharp tools or wire fencing: These can cause injury if pets run into them while playing.
● Compost heaps: Decomposing food and garden waste can contain harmful moulds or toxins.
Top Tip: Secure ponds with low fencing and ensure tools and waste are stored safely out of reach.
Creating a Pet-Friendly Garden
A safe garden doesn’t have to mean compromising on beauty. Here are a few ways to make your outdoor space pet-friendly:
● Choose non-toxic plants and create designated digging areas for dogs.
● Use sturdy, secure fencing to prevent adventurous pets from escaping.
● Provide shaded areas where pets can rest during warmer weather.
● Keep a fresh water bowl outside to help pets stay hydrated.
Gardens should be a place of joy for both you and your pets. By making a few thoughtful changes, you can create a safe haven where they can sniff, play, and relax without worry.
