For many pet owners, the beautiful spring weather has spurred our dreams of an ideal backyard. Gardens, patios, and BBQs are filling our Pinterest boards and daydreams, and maybe even getting our hands dirty.

But while you start to spruce up your yard for your summertime fun, why not make this space an oasis for your pet, as well as your people? It doesn’t take much to make your yard a pet’s paradise, and your four-legged friend will love it.

Spring Cleaning

Before you begin, you’ll want to make sure that your yard is safe for Fluffy and Fido. Take a look at our recent blog on spring pet tips to see what you can do to make your yard safe and secure for your furry family.

Among other things, you’ll want to make sure that your fence is shored up and that all loose boards are back where they should be. Likewise, you may want to double-check that the plants and flowers you’re growing aren’t toxic to your pets.

Fun in the Sun

Once you’re satisfied that your pets are safe, the real fun can begin. Depending on your breed, and how much space you have, there are a lot of simple things you can do to make your yard pet-friendly.

If you have a dog, you may want to look at some ideas for constructing a small-scale pet agility course in your backyard. This can be a great way to train your pup and help him or her get the exercise needed to stay fit. It doesn’t take much to put a few items together, and with a little practice your pet will be the life of your summer parties.

If you have a cat that usually remains indoors, you may also want to consider constructing a “cat cage” off of an easily accessible window. Essentially this is building a catwalk and a few perches along the siding of your house and enclosing it with wire mesh. This way your cat can get the best of both worlds, while remaining relatively safe and close to home.

Your Pet’s Oasis

Part of making your yard an oasis, is making sure that their needs are met. Make certain that your pet has at least one water bowl (per-pet) outdoors that is full of fresh water at all times. You may want to consider placing water bowls throughout your yard, in some of your pet’s favorite spots, so that they’re easily accessible when needed.

You may also want to take this opportunity to make your pet’s dream home. Doghouses and runs, outdoor cat condos, and cozy nests are all great ways to help your pet feel at home. Just be sure that there’s plenty of grass, shade, and water for your pet to retreat to on hot summer days.

With so much to do, why are you still reading our blog? Get outside and get started! And send us pictures of what you make for your pet! We’d love to see what you come up with.