7 minute read

natural pet

Next Article
fit body

fit body

Create a Dog-Friendly Yard

Plants, Paths and Play Areas to Wag a Tail

Advertisement

by Karen Shaw Becker

ke magoon/AdobeStock.com B ackyards can be sanctuaries, filled with gardens and landscaping. For homeowners with dogs, consider “dogscaping”. It’s a term coined by landscape designer Maureen Gilmer of Palm Springs, California, who wrote the e-book The Dog-Scaped Yard. Gilmer points out that nobody asks Fido his opinion on how to landscape the yard, “yet he spends more time there than anyone else.”

The yard should be a safe and secure place for the family dog, so fencing may be necessary to give ample room to roam. Lawn chemicals on grass are linked to cancer in dogs, so those are best avoided.

Some people choose to go beyond grass to create a rich environment for the dog to explore. Gilmer recommends planting a meadow, complete with tall grasses and perennials, where the prized pet can investigate the terrain. Low troughs of wheat grass are good for a dog to nibble on and may discourage him from chewing on ornamental flowers and plants. Some dogs also enjoy rose hips from Rosa rugosa plants.

Flea-repelling herbs

Many herbs were once known as “fleabane” because they could repel fleas. Plant a fleabane garden to discourage these pests from moving in and finding the dogs. “When my dog Dot rubs against them, I can smell the aromatic oils on her fur,” Gilmer notes.

Suitable plants for this garden include pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium), wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), tansy (Tanacetum vulgare), fleawort (Erigeron canadense), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sweet bay (Laurus nobilis) and eucalyptus. The plants can also be dried and added to a dog’s bedding for a more natural flea repellant.

When choosing the best locations for herbs and flowers, consider keeping about 18 inches around the border of the yard free from plants. Because dogs regularly tend to patrol the boundary of their territory, any plants on this trail may get trampled.

provide Thoughtful areas for the dog

Dogs love to dig, but if it has become a problem, it could be because the dog is trying to uncover a cool spot to rest. Gilmer recommends being proactive by digging a shallow pit where a dog can comfortably fit in a shady spot. Line it with sand to prevent it from turning into a mud pit and keep it damp. In warm weather, a dog can retreat to this cooling-off spot.

A plastic kiddie pool can be a welcome addition for dogs to escape the summer heat. To incorporate it into the landscape, dig out an area and set it into the ground.

Another thoughtful addition is a post where a dog can mark his territory to his heart’s content. A large piece of driftwood or an upright log works well for this purpose. Logs are also useful as borders along planted areas where the dog is meant to stay out.

Pathways for the dog to run through are also important, as dogs will create their own routes if they are allowed to. Turn the walkways into proper paths by widening them to three feet. Consider creating a designated area in the yard for the dog to relieve himself.

When planting flowerbeds, put sturdier plants such as ornamental grasses at the edge, while putting more fragile plants in the middle, where a dog is less likely to run over them. Choose plants that are sturdy, but soft, without thorns or spines that could scrape a pet.

A doggy play area will also be much appreciated by a pup. Define it by using logs or stone blocks, then set out a few of the dog’s favorite toys for him to discover. For dogs that like to dig, teaching him that this is his play spot where it’s acceptable can save the gardens. Many four-legged diggers enjoy having a sand pit or designated dig spot where they can express this natural behavior.

By paying careful attention to the plants and features in the yard, the perfect pet-friendly environment can be created.

Veterinarian Karen Shaw Becker has spent her career empowering animal guardians to make knowledgeable decisions to extend the life and wellbeing of their animals. Learn more at DrKarenBecker.com.

Feel the JOY of LOVE again!

Join the Largest Online Community of Holistic-Conscious Singles who value

Authentic & Loving Relationships Natural Health & Sustainable Living Living a Conscious Life Honoring Diversity

Try for FREE at NaturalAwakeningsSingles.com

JULY The Food Connection JULY Food as Medicine Food as Medicine Plus: Plus: Better Sleep Better Sleep The Ethics of What We Eat The Ethics of What We Eat Benefits of Urban Gardening Benefits of Urban Gardening

The Happiness Issue

AUGUST AUGUST Boost Happiness & Boost Happiness & Well-Being Well-Being Plus: Plus: Back-to-School Wellness Tips Back-to-School Wellness Tips Benefits of Having a Life Coach Benefits of Having a Life Coach Shamanism Today Shamanism Today Inspired Living Issue

SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER Creativity in Health & Creativity in Health & Healing Healing Plus: Plus: Integrative Pain Management Integrative Pain Management The Healing Power of Art for Kids The Healing Power of Art for Kids National Yoga Awareness Month National Yoga Awareness Month

Contact us to learn about marketing Contact us to learn about marketing opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings opportunities and become a member of the Natural Awakenings community at: community at:

To advertise call 843-821-7404 or email Advertising@NALowcountry.com

Submissions for the July issue must be received no later than June 10 and can be entered at NALowcountry.com. $15 per entry for print edition.

SATURDAY, JUNE 5

Book Signing at Lowcountry Whimsy with Dr. Allison Brown – 11am-3pm. Meet Dr. Allison Brown, best-selling author of The Journey Within, a personally inspiring account of spiritual growth and reconciliation. Allison will answer questions and provide signed copies of her newest release! FREE. Lowcountry Whimsy, 1405 Ben Sawyer Blvd Unit 105, Mt Pleasant. 843-388-7338. LowcountryWhimsy.com/Event-details/6-5-21-book-signing-with-dr-allison-brown.

ongoing events

sunday

PLAnS CHAnGECall ahead to confirm events will occur as scheduled.

Power of Eight Intentions Virtual Discussion

Group – 7-8:30pm. Unity of Charleston Rev Sarah Scott Putnam leads the weekly Zoom virtual group based upon Lynne McTaggart’s “Power of Eight”. The book is recommended but not necessary. Tap into your extraordinary human capacity for healing, using the miraculous power of group intention and its mirror effect. Email unitycharleston@msn for login instructions. Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843-566-0600. www. unitychs.org

tuesday

ONSITE OM Chanting Outdoors around the

bliss Labyrinth – 6-7pm. 1st & 3rd Tues. Om chanting creates well-being in your life. Join OM Chanting with Carmen Nash. There may be cancellations due to weather. Require a mask?... Remember chanting requires full breathing. Social distancing is available. Arrive 10 minutes early with your curiosity, open heart, bug spray, and water for hydration. Free. Donations to bliss Spiritual Co-op appreciated. Bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks, Mt. Pleasant. 843-847-1927. blissspiritualco-op.org/onsite-om-chanting-wcarmen-nash.

wednesday

ONSITE Treating Pain & Inflammation with

Essential Oils – 12:30-2pm. 4th Wed. This class will discuss the benefits of certain oils and rubs and recommendations for use to help manage pain. Essential oils can be a safe, natural option to protect and maintain health; help with sleep, energy, mood and pain and protect the immune system. Free. Donations to bliss Spiritual Co-op appreciated. Bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks, Mt. Pleasant. 843-847-1927. blissspiritualcoop.org/onsite-health-benefits-of-essential-oils-wdr-marcelaine-reneau. ONSITE Cardio Step & Core Training – 6-7pm. An up-tempo class that gets you stepping up and down, around and over the platform, boosting cardiovascular health, reducing fat, toning legs and improving balance, coordination and agility. Designed for all levels. Limited to 5 participants (unless you can bring your own equipment Free. Donations to bliss Spiritual Co-op appreciated. Bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks, Mt. Pleasant. 843-847-1927. blissspiritualco-op.org/ onsite-cardio-step-core-training-w-elizabethhudson.

ONSITE Intuitive Practice Circle w/ Rachelle

Grant, Heather Baity & Neely Kiser – 7-8:30pm. 3rd Wed. This is monthly gathering to practice intuitive abilities with others, within a safe and supportive environment. Participants will be given the opportunity to both give and receive a session. Experience levels may vary, but all are welcome Donations to bliss Spiritual Co-op appreciated. Bliss Spiritual Co-op, 1163 Pleasant Oaks, Mt. Pleasant. 843-564-8237. blissspiritualco-op.org/ onsite-intuitive-practice-circle-w-rachelle-grantheather-baity-neely-kiser.

saturday

Power of Choice Virtual Discussion Group Unity

of Charleston – 11am-12:30pm. 1st Sat. Jackie McCullough leads the 1st Saturday virtual discussion group from 11am – 12:30pm on Zoom. Jackie is a Life Options Coach/Counselor. She helps us to choose joy, peace and happiness instead of fear, anxiety and depression. We will also explore a writing technique to “Write Ourselves Well.” Email unitycharleston@msn.com for login instructions. Donation on www.unitychs.org. . Donation. Unity of Charleston, 2535 Leeds Ave, Charleston. 843566-0600. unitychs.org. Goat Yoga – Noon-1pm. Come enjoy a 60-minute Vinyasa with the help of our baby goats and maybe an occasional pig. This is a great experience for all ages and levels. Our yoga is outdoors and COVID safe. LEAVE YOUR STRESS AT THE FARM! Be prepared for baby goat hugs! 100% refund available if the class is canceled. $25. The Goatery at Kiawah River, 3883 Betsy Kerrison Parkway, Johns Island. 843-580-6565. Goatsaregood.com.

classifieds

PART-TIME hElP wANTED

ARE YOU DEPENDABLE, ENjOY CLEANING, AND HAVE A POSITIVE

ATTITUDE AND ENERGY? Peace Love and Harmony Cleaning is looking for you! Call Jeannine at 843-822-4557.

This article is from: