Landscaping not only can accommodate gardeners and kids, but can be designed to allow pets to enjoy spaces.
Danna Cain, a landscape architect, garden designer and contractor with Home & Garden Design, will speak about dog-friendly landscaping March 21 at the Spring Atlanta Home Show (atlantahomeshow.com) at the Cobb Galleria Centre. She suggested what to consider when creating a fido-friendly yard.
Don’t think one-dog-fits-all
The breed and size of a dog can result in different issues and solutions for outdoor spaces, Cain said. Other factors include the dog’s personal habits, in terms of whether they like to run, dig, swim or simply rest in the shade. “I designate spaces for each activity,” she said.
When Cain worked with a client who had a St. Bernard, she discovered the large dog had a favorite route through the woodland part of the yard. With a few tweaks that included paving it with materials that were suitable for his paws, she did not have to reorient the yard.
Do use appropriate materials
For paths and even a small patio, Cain suggests using medium slate nuggets, also known as slate chips, which compact well and make it easy to walk on. The material is usable for dogs of all sizes, she said. For some dogs, she suggests mountain pebble, which is more angular than pea gravel. If you have a large dog, consider chunkier material, such as red rock, a crushed stone.
Another option is stepping stones surrounded by dwarf mondo grass or low-growing and durable ground cover, such as mazus or creeping Jenny. Plants such as ferns may be difficult because of the damage that can be created by pets walking by or on them. Cain has found that the autumn fern is best, since it clumps, and broken fronds can grow back quickly and replenish.
For homeowners who want their dog — especially heavier animals — to hang out on a deck, Cain recommends using a durable lumber, such as Epay, and a gate can be added.
Do find the right layout
Often, Cain will receive requests from homeowners who want pets to have a safe, contained outside area to use the bathroom or for exercise, without having free roam of the entire yard. “I do get quite a lot of requests for creating a space that is separate from the areas that the family uses the most often,” she said.
For some clients, she has designed a small walled courtyard or fenced-in area off the back door. For more pet play, Cain has added agility features such as hoops and a teeter-totter to help dogs gain balance, in addition to tunnels. That way, homeowners can accommodate every member of their family.
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