One Health

How to Create a Pet-Friendly Yard, an article hosted by Lowes.

• The ASPCA hosts a database of toxic and non-toxic plants, including the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Phone Number: (888) 426-4435
  • Some plants like marigolds, catnip, sage, and rosemary, ward off fleas and other pests that latch on to pets.
• Designate a spot in the yard for your pets to relive themselves, and encourage your pets to use this spot each time you take them outside. Since repeated usage in the same spot will eventually kill grass, you may want to hose the area afterwards to prevent the grass from browning.
• Protect both your pets and your plants by posting fences around garden areas and creating paths for pets around them.
• Be sure to use pet-friendly fertilizers and other lawn care products.

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Kayla Anderson
Veterinary Social Worker
Program for Pet Health Equity
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Having little breed dogs in the past, I learned to watch the rabbits to see where the "escape routes" might be along the fences and learned mulch can contain cocoa which is toxic to dogs. LOL. Here are some other ideas to keep your yard safe for your family.

🐾 Check plants and landscaping Remove or fence off toxic plants (e.g. azalea, oleander, sago palm, lilies for cats). Avoid using cocoa mulch, which is toxic to pets.
		🐾 Secure fences and gates Regularly inspect for holes, weak spots, or gaps they could squeeze through. Ensure gates latch securely to prevent accidental escapes.
🐾 Avoid chemical hazards Store fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and ice melts out of reach. Choose pet-safe lawn treatments and allow time for drying before letting pets out.
	🐾 Prevent wildlife conflicts Keep trash cans sealed to avoid attracting wildlife. Remove food sources that draw in snakes, raccoons, or coyotes.
🐾 Provide shade and fresh water Especially in summer, pets need shaded areas & accessible clean water to prevent overheating.
They will thank you for it!

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T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Program for Pet Health Equity
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Absolutely love these tips-so practical and essential for any pet owner! 🐾 Securing fences and being mindful of toxic plants really does make all the difference. These are very useful ideas and reminders for keeping our furry friends safe outdoors.

I recently came across a super engaging and powerful article from Social Mom Blog on "How to Create a Pet-Friendly Yard"-and it was packed with unique and insightful information! I learned so much and highly recommend giving it a read. Hope you'll enjoy it as much as I did!

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Sarah Lauren
Blogger
Social Mom Blog
CA
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Original Message:
Sent: 06-27-2025 01:02 PM
From: T' Fisher
Subject: Backyard Safety Tips for Pet Parents 🏡

Having little breed dogs in the past, I learned to watch the rabbits to see where the "escape routes" might be along the fences and learned mulch can contain cocoa which is toxic to dogs. LOL. Here are some other ideas to keep your yard safe for your family.

🐾 Check plants and landscaping Remove or fence off toxic plants (e.g. azalea, oleander, sago palm, lilies for cats). Avoid using cocoa mulch, which is toxic to pets.
		🐾 Secure fences and gates Regularly inspect for holes, weak spots, or gaps they could squeeze through. Ensure gates latch securely to prevent accidental escapes.
🐾 Avoid chemical hazards Store fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, and ice melts out of reach. Choose pet-safe lawn treatments and allow time for drying before letting pets out.
	🐾 Prevent wildlife conflicts Keep trash cans sealed to avoid attracting wildlife. Remove food sources that draw in snakes, raccoons, or coyotes.
🐾 Provide shade and fresh water Especially in summer, pets need shaded areas & accessible clean water to prevent overheating.
They will thank you for it!

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T' Fisher, Director of Operations
Program for Pet Health Equity
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