How to create a garden for pets

As a conscientious pet owner, you want to make sure your pets are safe when they go outside. Inexperienced, younger pets can soon get into trouble when left unattended, but even older pets can occasionally be put at risk. Here are some tips for keeping your pets safe and happy in the garden.

Secure it properly
Ensure your garden is properly fenced off so your pet cannot escape. This will also keep other animals out! If necessary, fit chicken wire along the base of hedges to fill any gaps. If you have rabbits, bury the chicken wire about 150mm (6in) deep then turn inwards for about another 150mm (6in) to prevent them burrowing out. Make sure tyou also secure awkward areas such as under decking or behind sheds, where pets might get stuck.

Steer clear of pesticides
All pesticides are best left alone as your pets may lick them off the leaves. Paraquat, for example, causes kidney failure in animals if ingested. You should also avoid fresh farmyard manure or organic fertilizers such as Fish Blood & Bone, or chicken pellets, all of which are attractive to animals. Garden compost should be safe provided no animal matter has been added. Only use slug pellets where your pets cannot eat them.

Beware of poisonous plants
Many plants can harm animals if they are eaten, though most pets will usually avoid highly poisonous plants by instinct. The following are poisonous in whole or part, so make sure they are not easily accessible to your pets in the garden: