How to create dog-friendly gardens

Pet-friendly properties are in high demand. Curating a dog-friendly garden will not only benefit pets but could also help homeowners add value to their property.

“Our parent company in the United States of America recently published a blog quoting a survey by Realtor.com. This blog post revealed that nearly 95% of pet owners consider the needs of their pets when shopping for a new home.

“While we don’t have the same survey here, I would imagine that the stats might be quite similar in South Africa,” said Adrian Goslett, regional director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa.

When curating a dog-friendly dwelling, RE/MAX of Southern Africa suggests factors to consider for a pet’s comfort and safety:

1. Avoid toxic flora and fauna
Did you know that certain flowers and plants can be toxic if ingested by dogs? Some of the most common plant species to avoid include azaleas, lilies, daffodils, sago palms, tulips and hyacinths.

Other common plants may also be harmful to pets, including peonies and geranium. It is always best to check with your vet and or plant nursery before planting anything.

Fertilisers and mulch can also be harmful and should be carefully considered before being applied to a garden that is home to pets. Avoid cocoa bean mulch, as this is known to be toxic to dogs.

2. Ensure that your outdoor fencing is secure
Building a secure perimeter wall or fence can be costly, but it will be worth it for your pet’s safety. With safety and security being a top priority among South African buyers, a well-fenced-in yard can also potentially increase your home’s resale value.

Depending on the dog breed, consider the height and durability of the fence to ensure that your pet cannot escape the safety of the backyard. Properly maintain fencing so that your dog doesn’t pick up splinters or cuts from damaged boundary walls.

3. Consider the creature comforts
South African summers can be brutal for certain dog breeds, particularly those bred for cooler climates. It is essential to provide some form of shade to prevent your dog from overheating.

You could also invest in a swimming pool or set up a splash pool for them to cool off. To make your life easier, install a tap in the garden so that you can easily refill your pet’s drinking bowls.

You can also place a hardwearing outdoor rug as a paw-wipe station so that your dogs don’t tread mud through your home.

There are so many ways to make any outdoor space safer and more enjoyable for man’s best friend.

If you cannot wait to own a pet but do not have a garden, it might be time to start looking for your own pet-friendly property.

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