So what's a pet parent to do? By taking a few precautions, you can both enjoy the great outdoors safely.
Danger Ahead
Nearly every yard has hidden cautions. For example:
Chemicals. If used properly, most chemicals pose little risk. An exception is 2, 4-D. The diethylamine salt in this weed killer can cause serious health problems in dogs. Rodent and insect repellents also are problematic, usually because people forget they've applied them.
Plants. The list of plants toxic to dogs includes yew, rhododendron and tulip and daffodil bulbs. Check with a nursery if you're wondering about your plants. If you have the above plants, remove them or prevent access to them.
Equipment. Keep lawn mowers, weed trimmers, chainsaws and similar equipment off limits. Keep dogs away from hot barbecue grills, too. (They love those meaty smells!)
Fences. Although they provide a barrier to the outside world, collars can get hooked in sharp-edged chain-link fences, and wooden fences can give splinters. A breakaway collar is a good solution. Unless fences are tall, some dogs can jump over them.
Play It Safe
Creating a safe haven isn't as hard as you might think. View your yard through your dog's eyes. Is he a digger? Add pavers at the base of your fence. Does he like to chew? A chew toy may keep him from plants.
