Whether you’ve got a dog that loves a good dig, a cat who thinks your flowerbeds are their personal throne, or a rabbit with a taste for tulips, making your garden pet-friendly is key. With a bit of planning and some clever landscaping, you can have a safe, stylish garden where your pets can roam freely – without turning it into a scene from Watership Down.
Here’s your down-to-earth pet friendly garden guide to creating a garden that keeps tails wagging and paws out of trouble.
Start with a Garden Design Consultation
Every great garden starts with a good natter. A garden design consultation helps you work out what you need, whether it’s a secure space for a bouncy pup, or a chill zone for a snoozy spaniel. We’ll assess the layout, your pets’ habits, and any hazards lurking about.
Thinking about a full transformation? Check out why we think ALS Landscaping, Lincoln is the right choice.
Avoid Toxic Plants
You’d be surprised how many common garden plants are dangerous for pets. Daffodils, lilies, foxgloves – they look lovely, but they’re a no-go for furry friends.
Before you plant anything, have a quick look at the RSPCA’s list of toxic and non-toxic plants. It’s a lifesaver – literally.
Need a hand with choosing the right mix? Our garden maintenance planning services include plant advice to suit your space and your pets.
Think Like a Dog
Dogs love to patrol, dig, and mark their territory. Cats love to explore and find hidey holes. So your garden should have:
- Clear paths for patrolling pups
- Digging zones (a designated digging spot can save your lawn!)
- Shade and shelter for hot days
- No escape routes – check fencing, hedges, and gates
We cover all this in the landscaping construction phases to make sure nothing’s overlooked.
Want ideas for fencing? We can help with this too!
Pick Pet-Safe Materials
Choose hard landscaping materials that won’t get too hot, slippery, or sharp. Think:
- Porous paving that stays cool
- Rounded gravel or bark (watch for chewing, though!)
- Artificial grass made for pets – Best Products Reviews has a helpful guide
We always source pet-safe materials as part of our Landscaping Lincoln services.
Add Layers of Interest (Without the Hazards)
Pets love exploring – so layered planting, tunnels, and textures can make your garden feel like a jungle adventure. Just make sure:
- Raised beds are secure
- Water features are shallow or covered
- Compost heaps are fenced off (they’re more tempting than a bin at a BBQ!)
The Dogs Trust has fab tips for making your garden fun and functional.
Safe Spaces & Supervision
Create a little pet den or hideout – somewhere shady and calm for naps. And, just like kids, pets need supervision. Even the best-designed garden needs a watchful eye now and then.
Our Professional Garden Makeover Lincoln team can build custom spaces tailored to your pets’ needs – from dog runs to feline sun loungers.
Maintain It With Pets in Mind
Pets bring joy… and mess. Regular garden maintenance planning keeps things tidy and safe. Trim overgrown plants, clean hard surfaces, and keep an eye on wear and tear caused by zoomies.
Final Thoughts: A Garden You’ll All Love
You don’t have to choose between a beautiful garden and a pet-safe one. With the right planning and expert help from the team at ALS Landscaping Lincoln, you can have both – and maybe even reclaim your flower beds in the process.
Ready to start your own pet-friendly paradise? Contact us today to book a consultation.
FAQs
Can I still have flowers in a pet-friendly garden?
Yes! Just make sure they’re non-toxic. Marigolds, sunflowers, and snapdragons are lovely and safe.
How high should garden fencing be to keep dogs in?
Depends on the breed. For jumpers like collies, 6ft is best. For most dogs, 4-5ft with no gaps will do.
Is artificial grass safe for pets?
Yes – if it’s high-quality and designed for pets. It drains well and doesn’t stain.
Contact Us Today
If you would like to find out more about our wide range of landscaping and garden design services please contact the team at ALS Landscaping today.
