Long days and cold nights encourage Parkites and their pets to spend more time on patios and in the garden. However, it is essential to surround PC pets with pet-friendly plants and ways to cool off.
Starting underground, colorful and bright bulbs, like tulips and daffodils contain serious toxins. Other bulbs that can be harmful to pets include: amaryllis, onions, and autumn crocus. Dogs are repelled by the odor of marigolds. Either dig up and give up bulbs or plant marigolds, chives, and chili pepper plants in and around your garden to keep your pets safe.
Thorny plants discourage dogs from venturing in where they are not wanted. Dogs will not want to contend with the pointy edges of a holly bush or the thorns on a rose bush.
Along with roses from the Rosacea family, consider planting dog-rose; this wild climbing rose is a rose by any other name and not like the ones seen in the average garden.
To keep color all summer and fall, consider planting sunflowers and gerbera daisies. They are safe for pets and, when cut, add color inside the house.
Other pet safe plants include, but are not limited to: zinnias and snapdragons.
While pansies add color to a garden and can liven up a salad with their flavor, they are mildly poisonous for animals. Keep the pansies out of reach from pets. Instead, add them to hanging baskets.
At 7,000 feet, the sun burns hot. Make sure that outdoor areas are pet-friendly and filled with shade. Plant trees and incorporate sun shades for both people and pets.
Water is essential, too. From fountains to plastic pools purchased at local hardware stores, pets and people love to dip their feet. Fresh water features soothe the senses for both pets and people in Park City.
