Dog-Proof Your Yard in Paso Robles for the Whole Family to Enjoy
November 5th, 2008 Posted in UncategorizedOkay… We all love our doggies, but they can completely destroy our landscaping and leave land mines making it almost impossible for family and company to enjoy the backyard.
The backyard should be a playground for the whole family and a place for entertaining in the spring, summer and fall – at least in Paso Robles. Fortunately, Paso Robles enjoys temperate weather that allows the lucky folks who live here to enjoy most all seasons. We even have some days in the winter where it is sunny and in the 70′s…
Now, we must look at our backyards from the dog’s perspective. He/she sees beautiful new garden beds ripe for burying bones and hunting gophers and squirrels; newly-laid sod needs marking and excavating; expensive plants and bulbs may be very tasty.
To keep your yard from going to the dogs, first start by installing an outdoor space specifically designed for your canine friend(s) for the times when you are away and times when you have company that aren’t dog friendly.
Dogs will generally create their own paths through the garden where they routinely explore and guard their territory. By determining their patterns of movement, you can figure out where to safely build your own paths.
Be proactive in trapping and deterring gophers and squirrels; especially in the country. Firstly, build a perimeter barricade around your property with gopher wire and gravel at least 2 feet deep to prevent the varmints from entering your yard.
Determine your pet’s favorite napping places in the yard throughout the day. Plant flexible grasses in the areas where your pet prefers to snooze so they are comfortable and not crushing your favorite expensive plants.
Create barriers or fences to block your dogs from vegetable and flower gardens where they might otherwise think of snacking or digging.
All of these ideas will help protect your yard from your pets, but hardscape (cement patios and walkways) will hold up best to dog traffic over the years and is easiest to clean.
If you would like to search the MLS for listings, visit my website. If you have any real estate questions or general questions about Paso Robles or San Luis Obispo North County, please contact me via email or call me at (805) 235-0234 for more information.
It starts with a dream…
Tags: dog-proof your yard, dogs, flower beds, gophers, paso robles, squirrels, vegetable gardens