Your guide to designing a pet-safe backyard

by Debbie Goldberg 01/14/2024

Designing a pet-safe backyard is essential to ensure the well-being and safety of your furry friends - and the rest of your household. Luckily, there are many ways you can design your backyard to be pet-safe and enjoyable for humans. Here are some tips to help you create a pet-friendly outdoor space:

Choose pet-friendly plants

Some plants can be toxic to pets if ingested. Research pet-safe plants and avoid those that are known to be toxic to dogs or cats. Opt for non-toxic plants such as pet grass, catnip, sunflowers, and certain types of herbs like parsley or basil.

Avoid harmful chemicals

Minimize the use of pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in your backyard, as these can be toxic to pets if they come into contact with or ingest them. Consider using pet-safe alternatives or natural pest control methods.

Use pet-friendly materials

Choose pet-friendly materials for hardscapes and outdoor furniture. Avoid using sharp-edged stones or gravel that can hurt your pet's paws. Opt for pet-safe, non-toxic paints or finishes on any structures or surfaces that your pets may come into contact with.

Create boundaries

Install secure fences or barriers to prevent your pets from wandering off or accessing potentially dangerous areas. Ensure that the fencing is tall and sturdy enough to keep your pets safely contained within the yard.

Set up designated play areas

Designate specific areas in your backyard for your pets to play and exercise. Install pet-friendly artificial turf or resilient ground coverings to protect their paws and ensure easy maintenance.

By implementing these tips, you can create a backyard environment that is safe, enjoyable, and conducive to the well-being of your beloved pets.

About the Author

Debbie Goldberg

I'm a full time Realtor with over 30 years of experience yet young enough to embrace today's ever-changing scope of marketing and technology. Having grown up in Connecticut and moved many times (too many to count!) I can empathize with today's buyers and sellers. Strictly maintaining ethical standards and being a fierce advocate on behalf of my clients are things I take very seriously. As a buyer, you can expect me to listen to and evaluate your real estate wants and needs. I can assist in explaining relevant forms, agreements, and closing procedures. I will guide you through the process of finding the right home, negotiating your offer, adhering to all contract dates and terms as well as final walk through and closing procedures. As a seller, I will listen to and evaluate your goals, needs, and timing in order to properly price your home to get the maximum exposure needed to attract the right buyers. In addition to negotiating on your behalf, I will make sure we communicate throughout the entire process as we navigate the contract terms, finance and inspection contingencies, as well as all closing procedures. I was born in Japan, grew up in Hamden and lived in New York, Ohio and Southern California before settling down in New Haven county to raise two kids, two dogs and a cat. I'm passionate about good food and love to bake. Some of my free time has been spent volunteering at Temple Beth Sholom, a synagogue where my family has been members for over 40 years. I also spend time at Tower One/Tower East, an assisted living center in New Haven where my mother-in-law now resides. 30 years of helping buyers and sellers achieve their goals has given me the peace of mind to know that what I do everyday matters. If you are thinking of buying or selling please keep me in mind.