For dog owners, having a garden is a great space to have where your dog can play and get some energy out, and relax in fresh air. However, there are also risks that you might not initially be aware of in the garden. Just because it’s your own garden doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s safe – here are some of the things to watch out for to make your garden safe…
Be Aware of Toxic Plants
There are many garden plants that are toxic if a dog were to eat them. Many of them are very common garden plants, including lilies, daffodils and foxgloves to name but a few. It is worth looking up the plants that are in your garden to find out if they are toxic to dogs and making them inaccessible to your dog if they are toxic. If you are a keen gardener have a look at the types of plants that are non-toxic.
Dog Theft
Unfortunately, there are instances where people have had their dogs stolen from their gardens. Don’t leave your dog unattended in the garden for long periods of time, and you can also get a professional like this CCTV installation Worcester based company https://apmfireandsecurity.com/cctv-installation/cctv-installation-worcester/ to put security cameras in the garden.
Preventing Escape
Dogs are naturally inquisitive, and they may be able to dig under or get through a gap in a fence. Make sure that not only your boundaries are secure and that your fencing has no gaps in it or any loose fence panels. You also need to make sure that it is not possible for your dog to dig under the fence.
Reducing the risk of dog theft
Theft is one garden risk that is easy to overlook. Expensive breeds in particular attract thieves who plan to sell them on, and dogs are usually taken before anyone notices. Make sure your dog is microchipped, so that if it is stolen and recovered, it can be identified as yours.
Walk your property and look for weak entry points and secluded spots where someone could hide or get into the garden unseen, then secure them. CCTV covering the garden is a useful deterrent and records evidence if anything happens.
Avoid leaving your dog unattended outside, and keep a lead and a well-fitted collar to hand so it can come with you rather than being left behind. When you are away, a pet sitter or a pet theft deterrent system can help keep your dog safe.