Creating a Pet-Friendly Outdoor Oasis

Not everyone thinks about it, but you should put just as much work into designing the exterior and landscape of your home as you do the interior. This is even more important for pet owners and animal lovers — a few intentional choices can transform your backyard into an outdoor oasis for all kinds of critters.

No matter what design you decide on, you’ll need greenery—even xeriscapes incorporate plants. When creating an animal-friendly yard, focus on safety, functionality, and harmony with local wildlife.

What Plants are Good for a Yard?

Choose plants that balance aesthetics with safety for pets and wildlife:

Avoid Toxins, Embrace Safety

• Lilies are popular but toxic to cats.
• Citronella repels mosquitoes but harms dogs; opt for lavender or mint instead.
• Catnip is a safe, dual-purpose option for feline-friendly yards.

Invite Pollinators

Create a buzzing habitat with these blooms:

• Bee balm
• Sunflowers
• Sage
• Nasturtium
• Borage

Always verify plant safety for pets before planting.

Functional Flora

Combine beauty and utility:

• Fruit trees provide shade and snacks
• Herbs like rosemary and basil thrive in raised beds or indoor pots

Transform with Hardscaping

Design non-living elements to protect and engage animals:

Paw-Friendly Surfaces

• Use stone or mulch instead of scorching concrete
• Add shade structures over patios

Shelter Solutions

• Install catios, doghouses, or birdhouses
• Include bug hotels to support pollinators

Water Wisdom

• Add moving water features to deter mosquitoes
• Use rocks to create safe drinking edges
• Refresh birdbaths daily

Secure Boundaries

• Install self-closing gates
• Bury chicken wire