If you are like me, you are a pet owner AND a plant lover, and sometimes, those two worlds collide–oftentimes with a nasty shock when you walk outside and find your newly planted geranium torn to bits, and your puppy with an upset tummy!

Three easy ways to enjoy both of these lifestyles is to:

1) Only plant pet-safe plants in your in-ground garden spaces. Based on your species and breed of pet, the hazards will vary, so BEFORE you take the plunge and add new plants to your landscaping, make sure that if there is a mishap, then your pet will not be in danger.

2) Add some sort or fencing around your in-ground garden spaces. This may appear a little unlike the magazine cover that you are dreaming of, but it will add a barrier between your plants and your pets and help ease your mind when your pet is outside.

3) Move containers up a little higher. If you have the option, relocate your smaller pots to a better location, out of your pet’s reach.  If you do not have that option, try using hanging baskets instead of floor planters.

Every home and family is different, so find a solution that works well for you, and go enjoy some time with your pet, worry-free!