There's nothing better for those of us who live in cooler climates than a warm, spring day. Finally, the ground is dry enough and the sun strong enough to play in the yard, throw a ball for Fido, and enjoy the spring weather. If your dog likes to dig near beds, it helps to know which plants belong in a pet-friendly landscape.
Fortunately, there are hundreds of annuals and perennial flowers for your outdoor living space that work well around dogs. Your landscape professional can guide you to plant choices that fit your yard and your pets.
Pet-Friendly Flowers
Bright, beautiful flower beds can include zinnias and Gerbera daisies without worry. Roses, violets, snapdragons and marigolds are other good options for pops of color in a yard dogs use daily. Pansies, petunias and sunflowers also fit well in a pet-friendly garden. Don't forget herbs! Basil, rosemary and thyme are fine if a dog samples them.
Pet-Friendly Shrubs
Many shrubs work in a yard dogs share, including some species of the colorful bottlebrush, roses, and the beautiful and fragrant magnolia bush.
Understanding Plant Choices for Pets
Some common landscape plants are not good matches for dogs. Azaleas, for example, are plants many homeowners love but should not sit where dogs dig and chew. A landscape plan that names the right species for each bed saves rework later.
Trust the design and installation of plants, shrubs and trees in your yard to experienced professionals who know which species fit pet-friendly beds and which belong elsewhere on the property.
When You Need Veterinary Guidance
In the Lakes Region, we're lucky to have Meredith Place Veterinary Emergency Hospital available for veterinary care after hours and weekends. Their phone number: (603)279-1117.
For our neighbors farther away, contact the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center 24/7/365 at (888)426-4435.