Creating a Dog-Friendly Backyard C reating a dog-friendly backyard brings many benefits such as the dog’s safety, prevention of boredom and attendant misbehaviors, exercise, and enjoyment of nature. Remember, though, that while letting your dog have a free romp in your yard keeps him exercised, active and happy, the yard should be used only as a temporary retreat. Nothing can replace the time you spend with your furry pal to enhance your relationship and seal your special bond. Dogs kept in a bland backyard all day are far more likely to misbehave with chewing, digging, excessive barking, pacing along the fence, or fence fighting with other dogs. Adapting your yard to make it more comfortable and appealing to your dog will go a long way toward making for a more contented, relaxed canine companion. Poisonous Ingestibles Dogs which are bored or hungry will be tempted to eat anything they find in your yard, including plants or flowers. Dogs can become extremely ill or even die from eating poisonous plants. Ask your vet for a list of plants to avoid. To help prevent your dog from eating plants, don’t garden with him present — otherwise he may conclude that playing with plants and digging are acceptable activities. Mulch can also be problematic. Many types of mulch are toxic, especially cocoa bean mulch. Large-size wood mulch can harm your dog if he chews on it, creating wood splinters that could lodge in his mouth or stomach. Don’t leave out any products meant for outdoor use where your pet can get into them. This includes lawn chemicals like fertilizers and weed killers, antifreeze, pesticides, and outdoor grilling supplies like charcoal and lighter fluid. Chewing Dogs chew for various reasons, such as stress, boredom, teething or diet deficiency. There are different things you can try to prevent this behavior, depending on your dog and what he is chewing. The easiest way to stop your dog from chewing is to have the item itself give the correction by applying a foultasting product such as Bitter Apple spray, citronella or hot chili sauce to it. However, since dogs’ tastes vary, you’ll need to experiment to see what works best. Keep your dog entertained by providing high-quality puzzle toys that reward him with treats, such as the Buster Cube® and KONG®. Every few days, rotate what toys are available to him, so that he has something new and fun to hold his interest. Never give your dog old shoes or clothing items to chew, as he may not distinguish between these old items and new ones. Also be aware that plastic drink bottles may Creating a Dog Friendly Back Yard continued on page 10 Furry Friends Proudly serving Warrenton for 6 years Loving Care When You’re Not There Mid-Day Walks & Visits Pet Care Services Special Needs Middleburg Montessori School BethAnn Slater, Primary Directress Head of School PO Box 35 Middleburg, VA 20118 (540) 687-5210 info@middleburgmontessori.com Kelly Parrish - Owner BONDED • INSURED • LICENSED www.furryfriendsva.com 540-272-9546 2013 • Issue 3 www.middleburgmontessori. Piedmont Family Magazine com 9