Petscaping - Landscaping for Dogs
Animals are amazing companions and are part of our families. Creating an outdoor living space for you and your family to enjoy is so important. We have incorporated outdoor kitchens and entertaining areas into our designs but what about our four legged family members? Outdoor spaces provide pets with a sense of freedom and relaxation. They need a space that they can run until their hearts are content or relax and enjoy the fresh air. So why not Petscape?
In order to petscape your backyard you must think like your pet. We know that may sound strange but trust us, it will be beneficial in the long run!
Ask yourself the following; What does my dog like to do when it is outside?
- Does Bruno run the same path every time they go outside?
- Does Bruno liketo lay down in the shade?
- Does Bruno like to play in water?
By asking yourself this question you have already started planning your Petscape!
Creating a Play Space for Your Pet
An active animal needs room to play and a place where they will be engaged.
When you are designing your project consider adding obstacle course items to your backyard by incorporating them into your hardscape design! You may be asking yourself how can I add these items without them being the center of attention? Create a raised garden bed with a tunnel going through it or an A frame Ramp that has flowering shrubs on each side.
Create Paths
Whether your dog likes to patrol their yard or is simply just a creature of habit we all know the damage that can be done to our grass by walking the same path day in and day out. Paths can be created from a variety of materials. Pavers, mulch or pebbles are great choices!
Add Borders
Just like inside our homes, sometimes we have certain areas that are deemed as “off limits for our pets”. Incorporating borders into your Petscape allows you to separate areas in your backyard that are pet friendly. Your four legged friend will quickly learn that this is their designated play area or an area that is off limits. Rocks make great borders and are aesthetically pleasing and are a great option for creating barriers between play areas and garden beds.
Don’t Forget Water!
We all know how important it is to make sure we are drinking water! This is also true for our pets! If your pet is spending a lot of time outside it is important to make sure that they have access to water. Water bowls do the job but we all know the struggle that can come with a water bowl. How many times have you filled up your pups water only to have it spilt 2 minutes later when the “zoomies” kick in? Consider incorporating a water source into your Petscape by adding a splash fountain or small water feature. Adding a water feature not only provides fresh water but it is a great source of sensory enrichment and on a hot day it provides a great place for your furry friend to cool off.
It’s Hot Outside!
Pet’s, just like humans, need a place where they can retreat for some shade and a siesta. Pet Shelters can be created in so many ways! While trees are the obvious choice, think outside the box! Consider creating a pet pergola or building a unique shady oasis out of armour Stone. With a wide variety of shapes and sizes stones can be placed to create a cave like shelter. Visit our armour Stone blog to learn more about this versatile stone.
Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is becoming more popular each year and pet owners are jumping on this trend! Incorporating an artificial grass area into your Petscape can provide many benefits.
- Advancements in artificial grass make it hard to tell apart from the real thing.
- No more harmful chemicals that aren’t safe for our pets
- Tough and Durable; no more filling in holes from the pup that likes to dig or wiping muddy paws
- Low Maintenance - a brush or blow every now and then has it looking brand new
- Easy to Clean - no need to worry about urine stains on discoloration to your grass from your pet’s bathroom business. Artificial grass is permeable so pet urine will simply drain through and feces can be easily removed. Hosing down your artificial grass and cleaning with a vinegar and water mix will eliminate any stains and odors.
