With Kennel Club registrations up by almost 40 per cent in a single year, many of us will be enjoying our first summer with our new pup.
So it’s important to realise that our homes’ outdoor spaces can prove dangerous for pets – while dogs and other animals can also prove to to be destructive to gardens, plants and lawns.
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With this in mind, the experts at insurance comparison site comparethemarket.com have shared their advice on helping protect your garden from pet damage whilst also ensuring your space is safe for animals so they don’t harm themselves.
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5. Clear up any exposed patches or piles of soil
Dogs love to dig, so an exposed area of soil is really inviting for your pup. Smooth over or remove any piles of soil to prevent mess and spreading more dirt. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
6. Make pathways
Think about your pet’s ‘path to grass’ on very hot days so that they don’t burn their paws on hot patios. To do this, add leafy plants to create shady spots along the route to your lawn. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
7. Choose tough grass
Lots of common garden grass is easily destroyed by pets, but some variants are tougher and much more durable. Bermuda grass is a great option as it has deep, sturdy roots, making it harder to ruin. It’s also fast-growing, meaning that any damaged areas can be quickly repaired. If putting down grass seeds, try to keep your pet off the new areas of grass while it gets established. Seeds can cause problems by getting into pets’ ears, eyes and paws and working their way under the skin. Photo: Canva/Getty Images
8. Use raised plant beds
If you’re trying to grow something in your garden, pets can hinder the process as they may trample or pee on the plants. Invest in raised plant beds so that they can’t reach and destroy your greenery. Photo: Canva/Getty Images