Starting a pet-friendly garden: safe plants and herbs for your pets

Hey guys!

I’ve been diving into the wonderful world of gardening, and I wanted to share my journey with you all, especially when it comes to keeping our beloved pets safe. Those who know me know my goofball pup Chip loves to get into everything—especially my house plants! So, I have to be extra mindful about what will be going into our garden to ensure it’s a safe and fun space for him.

Why Pet-Friendly Gardening Matters

Gardening is not only a fantastic way to beautify our homes but also a great way to create a lovely space for our pets to explore. However, not all plants are safe for our pets. Some common garden plants can be toxic to dogs and cats, leading to various health issues. That's why I’ve done some research and compiled a list of pet-safe plants and herbs to help you create a pet-friendly garden.

Pet-Safe Plants and Herbs

1. Basil - Not only is basil a delicious herb for cooking (the smell makes me hungry instantly), but it's also safe for pets. Basil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can even help soothe your pet's tummy.

2. Rosemary - Rosemary is another fantastic herb that's safe for pets. It’s great for seasoning food and has a lovely aroma. Plus, it can help deter pests in your garden.

3. Thyme - Thyme is a pet-safe herb that can be used in cooking and as a ground cover in your garden. It’s hardy and easy to grow.

4. Parsley - Parsley is rich in vitamins and minerals and is safe for pets in small amounts. It’s a great addition to your garden and your meals.

5. Chamomile - Chamomile is not only a calming herb for humans but is also safe for pets. It can help with anxiety and digestive issues in dogs. My dog Kota is a little ball of anxiety, so I will definitely be trying this out!

6. Lavender - Lavender is well-known for its calming effects. While it's safe for pets in small quantities, be mindful of overexposure, as it can cause mild tummy aches.

7. Marigold - Marigolds are bright, cheerful flowers that are safe for pets. They can help repel insects and add a pop of color to your garden. Anything that helps with keeping the mosquitos away is something I definitely want in my garden.

Bonus Tips for a Pet-Safe Garden:

1. Supervision: Always keep an eye on your pets when they’re in the garden, especially if you’re unsure about the safety of certain plants. I like to stay outside so my little Chip doesn't get mistaken for a tasty snack and get swooped up by a big bird— but honestly, he's probably too much of a chunk for that anyway!

2. Elevation: Consider planting herbs and plants in elevated planters or hanging baskets to keep them out of reach of curious pets.

3. Barrier: Use fencing or garden borders to create designated pet-safe zones.

4. Research: Always double-check the safety of any new plant before adding it to your garden.

Creating a pet-friendly garden is a rewarding project that ensures your pets can enjoy the outdoors safely. If you want to share your own gardening tips, feel free to reach out or leave a comment! I'm so excited to get started. Wish me luck!