National Dog Day is Sunday, Aug. 26. Yes, a day set aside to celebrate dogs – especially the ones who love our families and entertain our kids. I know your mind is already racing to make National Dog Day a special event in your household, so here are some tips from Lucky the TurfMutt to encourage pet families to use the day to spruce up the family yard (It needed some attention anyhow!) for pet friendly fun.
Debbi Mayster, the official spokesdog of Outdoor Power Equipment Institute (OPEI) reminds us, “National Dog Day is a date set aside to celebrate dogs, recognize the number that need to be rescued each year, and acknowledge our canine friends who work to save lives and bring comfort.”
Giving attention to the family yard makes the outdoor living space enjoyable for people while also providing a place for the family pet to burn off energy, relax, play with friends and do their “business.”
So, OPEI, an environmental education program, and Lucky the TurfMutt, a former rescue dog who paws it forward by helping kids and their families learn about the benefits of their family yard for people and pets, want to help you enjoy the family yard with these tips from Kris Kiser, CEO and President of OPEI and TurfMutt.
Skip Fake Grass
Artificial turf (a.k.a. fake grass) is never a good idea, especially if you have pets. Plastic grass gets very hot during the summer, is challenging to clean, and is anything but environmentally-friendly. It cannot be recycled, and it requires water to clean and cool it. Be a backyard superhero and select real turfgrass.
Pick the Right Plants & Grasses
As for which kind of grass to choose, go for something hardy that will withstand a high volume of traffic. Buffalo and Bermuda grasses can be a good choice, depending on your climate zone. You’ll want soft, yet sturdy, foliage near walkways – save the delicate decorative flowers for elevated flowerbeds and patio pots.
Choose Natural
There are many non-toxic ways to prevent pests in your backyard, which is good news for your people and pets! Wind chimes near flower and garden beds can help keep pets and pests away. Scented marigolds repel unwanted insects while attracting spider mites and snails. Lavender smells amazing and repels fleas and moths. The oil in basil plants can keep mosquitoes and flies away.
Consider Pollinators & Other Wildlife
While you want to keep some pests out, remember that nature starts in your backyard! Your family yard provides habitat and food for birds, butterflies, bees and more. Each of these species help pollinate human food crops and flowering plants, so take them into consideration when you’re selecting your living landscapes.
Create a Doggy Dream Yard
One final tip – there’s no shame in going all out to make your yard a dream for your dog! Remember, your outdoor living room is one of your dog’s favorite places to be. Some ideas include adding a splash pool for your pup, creating a sandbox for Fido to unleash his love of digging, or adding a puppy pergola to provide shade for Sadie. Be creative! Your canine will thank you.
