Pet owners should be cautious as summer approaches
Dobbies Garden Centres have urged pet owners to take caution in the sun. As the good weather begins to role in, care must be taken when it comes to letting your dog out to the garden.
Dobbies’ plant buyer, Nigel Lawton, recommends creating a safe and welcoming environment for your pet. Dogs should enjoy as much outdoor action as possible but it doesn't have to come at the cost of your garden.
Dogs will thrive in dedicated shaded zones when the sun becomes too hot. It's important they have somewhere to cool down if needed. Check out Nigel's garden tips for dog owners below.
Choose your plants wisely
Energetic pets can be a bit much for delicate plants which is why Nigel recommends choosing your spring bedding plants with care.
He said: “Young plants and those with delicate stems might not stand up well to excited paws dashing through flower beds, so consider planting those in raised containers or protected spots.
“In your flower beds, opt for sturdy shrubs and hardy, well-established perennials that can handle a bit more activity.”
Plant protection
Nigel recommends using raised planters and containers to keep plants away from curious dogs. He said: “If you’ve got a young puppy or particularly lively dog, making the most of container displays will mean you can enjoy spring colour in your garden without worrying about playful paws causing damage.”
Create a dedicated zone for dogs
Nigel said: “To keep your garden looking its best and give your dog a fun outlet, why not create a designated play area for digging, using sand or bark, and sniffing, using dog-friendly plants?
“Filling the area with their favourite toys and treats will stimulate their senses and decrease the risk of them digging elsewhere in your garden. Dog-friendly plants like cornflowers and calendula, and herbs like rosemary, sage and thyme are safe for dogs to sniff so can be planted to give them a dedicated area to explore with their nose.”
Create shady areas
Nigel says it’s important to be aware of the amount of sun your dog gets in the garden, especially as we approach the summer months.
He comments: “To ensure your garden is a fun and safe space for your dog this summer, it’s a good idea to create shaded areas where they can keep cool.
“You can do this with sun parasols or naturally with trees, like Birch or Maple, or even large shrubs like camellias can help provide shade for your dog during hot weather spells. You can also add a pet-friendly water feature to your garden to give dogs extra entertainment and keep them hydrated on warmer days.”
