Creating a Safe Outdoor Space for Your Dog
As dog owners, we want to do everything possible to keep our furry friends happy and safe. After all, our pups do so much for us with their warm hugs and constant companionship, so it is only right to give them the best life possible. One activity that most dogs love is time outside, where they can run around and sniff the crisp air. If you are a homeowner, it is important to not only have an outdoor space where your dogs can roam but also to ensure that it is safe and secure.
If you are a new dog owner or you need advice on how to fix up your backyard to make it safe for your pet, then this guide will provide the guidance and tips you need to get started.
It's Important to Make a Space
As much as some of us like the idea of keeping our pup with us inside all day, the fact is that dogs need outdoor activity. When they are outside, they can get the exercise they need to grow strong and keep their weight under control. Plus, the outdoors is full of experiences that they won't get when cooped up indoors, and they need that excitement to stimulate their senses.
Dogs also crave adventure, and if they are cooped up inside all day, they can soon experience boredom which could eventually translate into anxiety and depression. Also, just like humans, dogs benefit greatly by absorbing the vitamin D that we all get naturally when we are out in the sun.
Perhaps the greatest benefit is that time outside creates a chance for you to bond and strengthen your relationship with your pooch, even in the winter. When you are happy, your dog is happy, and not only that, but when your pup is out there running around, there is a chance that you will be too, which means that you will be exercising and staying healthy. As you can see, there are many reasons to create a great outdoor space for your dog, but safety must be the priority.
Build a Fence to Keep Them Safe
When creating a safe backyard, the most important part is ensuring that your dog cannot easily escape and find itself in danger. This step is essential no matter where you live. If your home is on a busy street, then your dog could be struck by a vehicle. Even if you live in an open space or against a forest preserve, your pup could get out and be attacked by another animal, or they could stumble into dangerous plant life. If you want your dog to enjoy the entirety of the backyard, then you should at least make sure to build a strong and sturdy fence.
When building a fence meant to keep your dog inside, you need to take some time to consider how high you need to make it. You will want to find out how high your dog can jump and plan the fence height accordingly. If your dog is still growing, then you will want to make the fence a few inches higher so they won't easily jump over it once they grow up.
As far as fence materials, you will need to consider the strength of your pooch. Most standard wood fences are good for small to medium-sized dogs, but larger breeds may be able to break through or dig under. Metal and chain link fences cannot be easily damaged, but if your dog does try to get through, they could be injured by the metal. What materials you choose will depend on your dog, but a fence made out of plastic or more durable wood, like oak, will usually do the trick.
If you know that your dog is too crafty for a traditional option, then you could also consider installing an electric fence. Going electric is a great choice if you have a smaller yard, and it is just as effective as a regular fence because it will send out digital frequencies whenever the dog gets close to the perimeter, so they stop in their tracks. Plus, an electric fence allows your pup to wander around the yard without needing a leash.
Clear Out The Toxins
Once your fence has been installed, you must sweep the area for dangerous materials that could harm your dog. That includes nails, screws, wood splinters, and metal scraps. The easiest way to spot most of these hazards is through the use of a metal detector. You will want to research online to find the best model available because the newest versions can catch most metal hazards, including those that are buried under the ground. You will want to sweep your yard at least twice to ensure that you don't miss a single thing.
Construction materials are just one category of hazard that you will want to clear from the outdoor space so your pup is not hurt. It is important to take an inventory of the backyard because there are many natural and man-made objects that can cause pain, including plants that can hurt or poison your dog. Some of the more poisonous plants include oleander, sago palm, and foxglove. If you are unfamiliar with these plants, then consider bringing in a botanist who can ensure that your yard is safe.
Many pests and animals can be a threat to your dog. For instance, if stung by a wasp, your pet could experience pain and swelling and even coughing and vomiting if they swallow the bug. There are also many dangerous parasites outside that can cause harm, including hookworms, tapeworms, and heartworms. While you may not always be able to see worms, you can avoid the threat by keeping a clean outdoor environment which includes cleaning up feces as soon as it happens. You can not always tell if your dog has worms, so bringing them in for regular veterinary checkups is necessary.
As you can see, creating an outdoor environment for your dog is important for their health and happiness. By making their safety a priority, you can ensure that they will love their new space for years to come.
