We all love a bit of outdoors time, and our pets probably do more than us. These are wild animals after all… okay, maybe not, but there’s no denying they love feeling the sun on their fur. A patio is a perfect place for pets to spend their day. It’s shady, super close to the lawn and often a place where they can be a bit sillier than inside. Still, it’s important to make sure your patio is pet-friendly so accidents don’t happen. Check out our guide to ensure your pets love spending time on the patio as safely as possible.
Plenty Of Shade
This point is mainly for people who don’t have a full patio yet or are weighing up patio styles. Shade is important to have for pets, especially if they’re outdoors only! A good quality patio gives your pets a place to cool off, so they don’t overheat or suffer from burns. For the best pet protection, we recommend a durable, insulated Stratco patio to ensure your pets are cool and comfortable 24/7.
Don’t Plant Lillies
Lillies are a gorgeous and resilient flower that Australian homeowners love to decorate with. They’re also toxic to cats and dogs. Cats are especially at risk if they consume any part of the plant. If you want to make your patio pet-friendly, make sure the plants won’t harm them.
There is a long list of plants that may be toxic for pets to ingest, but lilies tend to be the most infamous because they are perfect pot plants for indoor or semi-indoor placement. Make sure you look around for pet-safe plants like orchids, snapdragons, roses and more.
A Privacy Spot
If your pets aren’t allowed indoors, chances are the patio is the best shade spot they have. If you plan to have social gatherings or spend a lot of time outdoors, it’s best to give your pups a spot that is only for them, where they can enjoy some alone time once they’re all socialised out. This doesn’t need to be a big area, but a simple mat or bed is perfect. Setting up a safe spot on your pet-friendly patio can reduce anxiety and help your dog cope with high-stress situations.
Social gatherings can be exciting, especially for pups. That can lead to over-excitement, jumping and other behaviours you don’t want. With enough training, you can teach Fido to stay in their area until your guests get comfortable, and then they can come and say hello once things have mellowed out.
Safety Rails
If your patio is elevated at all, be that on the second floor or even levelled out at the top of a hill, it’s important to install protection from falls. Guard rails protect animals as well as people from falling. When choosing your balustrading, opt for something that your pets won’t be able to squeeze through or under.
You may have heard of High-Rise Syndrome. It’s a veterinary term for injuries sustained (most commonly by cats) from a fall at the second story or higher. Most dogs that have experienced High-Rise Syndrome chose to jump over the balcony instead of falling by accidental circumstances. This can be triggered by many things (chasing prey, mating behaviours, excitement or even separation anxiety). Most pets know falls from heights will injure them, but always make sure your patio rails are safe if there is any major drop-off.
Install A Catio
Maybe you have indoor pets that you still want to get some sunlight and fresh air. A catio, also called a ‘cat patio’, is an enclosed cage area that can be attached to a window or dog door that lets your pets enjoy the yard without the risk of running off. These can perfectly pair with patios so they have a choice between hanging out inside, in the patio shade, or fully outdoors. Despite the name, these structures are perfect for small dogs, larger rodents, birds and, obviously, cats. While we don’t install this kind of patio at SEQ Patio Group, we can build around an existing catio, or make plans with one in mind, so your pets always get great shade.
Pet Paths In The Garden
Being outside can feel like an adventure for your pets, so of course they’ll want to explore! The first place pets tend to check out is your garden. If you want to avoid them trampling over your plants, consider installing small paths that cut through, so there’s a clear way to navigate without trailblazing. We can’t promise your pets won’t still take a shortcut, but you’ll be surprised how well they follow set paths.
Reliable Water Stations
All that playing and running around can work up a thirst! Make sure you have a large and relatively heavy bowl so your pets always have access to water. The last thing you want is a bowl your pup can spill, especially if you’re away from home.
Build Your Dream Patio Today
A patio is a perfect place for pets to relax or play. We set you up with the patio of your dreams right away. Don’t worry about saving up, we offer several no-interest payment deals that help you pay off your patio in manageable bite-sized increments. If that sounds good to you, contact us today and start decorating your perfect patio sooner rather than later.
