How to Have a Pet-Friendly Backyard

A backyard is a stir crazy canine's personal playground. Providing your pup access to the backyard allows him to exercise and delight in the sights and sounds of the great outdoors. Before releasing your furry friends, make sure your backyard is a safe and secure space. Read on to learn how to have a pet-friendly backyard.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Carefully examine the full parameter of the backyard. Inspect your gate or fence to insure that it's in tact and secure. Take a good look at the opening to make sure it is tightly closed and locked. Look for gaps in the links, holes and other escape routes. Be sure to place bricks, large stones or another heavy material in front of openings that your pet could squeeze through by accident.

2. Familiarize yourself with the plants growing in your backyard. Certain plants may be harmful to your pet's health and should be removed from the area. Visit the ASPCA website for a complete list of plants toxic to animals.

3. Keep lawn chemicals like fertilizers and weed killers securely stored away. Keep all outdoor use products such as antifreeze, pesticides and other poisons out of reach. Also remember to put away outdoor grilling supplies including lighter fluid and charcoal. Curious critters could ingest toxic chemicals if they are left lying around.

4. Keep a full water bowl in the backyard at all times. Active animals easily dehydrate under the intense sun and should have access to water at all times.

5. Keep a variety of appropriate toys outside. Providing your pup with a safe chew toy prevents him from chewing on branches and other potentially hazardous materials. Not only that, but an assortment of toys keeps a curious canine from getting into trouble.

Tips & Warnings

• Never make a backyard your dog's permanent home. Allowing your dog free range of the backyard is a wonderful way to keep him active and happy, but it should be treated as a temporary retreat.
• Keep your backyard well-maintained. Mow regularly and don't allow overgrowth of weeds or grass. At least once a month, poop scoop the outdoor space. Also treat the area for fleas and ticks.
• Keep your pets' tags current. Make sure tags clearly state his name, address and phone number. Also identify any serious medical conditions he might have that require regular medication and treatment.
• If you have a pool in the backyard, consider constructing a barrier to prevent accidents. Pets will typically stay away from the body of water and many are natural swimmers. However clumsy puppies may accidentally fall in or an excited pet may jump in without thinking. If you don't want to build a fence, make sure your pet is comfortable in water and teach him how to exit the pool.