Pet Friendly Gardens

Each year we try and create pet friendly gardens in our backyard that our dogs and ( my daughter's) cat will enjoy. Our first year of doing this we had no idea how many plants and shrubs where actually dangerous to our pets. What we decided to do was make a garden our pets could enjoy, we have a pretty good size yard probably about 1/4 acre. So before I share with you what we plant for our animals to enjoy. Let's get to the important stuff. What can hurt or harm our pets, are begonias pet friendly, and more queries.

Plants Dangerous for Dogs and cats:

• Lily: The Lily is very popular in the spring, but it is very poisonous to cats. Though it has not proven dangerous to dogs, I'm not taking the chance.

• Begonia:  Begonia is poisonous to both dogs and cats. There are certain varieties of Begonia that are not toxic, but again I'm not taking any chances. There are over 1,000 species of Begonias, so be careful when you choose one.

• Hyacinth:  The typical Easter season Hyacinth is poisonous to both dogs and cats. There are at least three varieties that are not toxic: Summer Hyacinth, Wild Hyacinth, and Grape Hyacinth. They look great, but I'd be worried my dogs are going to eat them since they are a couple knuckleheads.

Other poisonous plants:

• Vinca
• Chrysanthemum
• Azalea
• Rhododendron
• Amaryllis
• Tulip
• Daffodil
• Sweet Pea
• Wisteria
• Morning Glory
• Hydrangea

Here is some of what I am planting :

• Petunia: Great for hanging baskets, pots, or bedding. Lots colors available, makes for a nice bright garden. Love sun. 
• Lavender: Ive read they have calming effects for people and dogs. Im planting lots of them this year.
• Marigold: Vibrant yellow color. Perennial. 
• Snapdragon: Multiple colors. Full or partial sun. 
• Impatiens: Multiple vibrant colors. Shade and moisture. Great for hanging baskets or bedding.
• Spider Plant: Can grow indoors all year round. I’ve had mine for a few years. 

Other pet friendly plants:

• Gerber Daisy
• Orchid
• Pincushion Flower
• Rose
• Sunflower
• Thea Japonica
• Tickseed
• African Violet
• Zinnia

I always worry about my dogs and getting into something. So if you have any other worries or concerns check out the  ASPCA’s Toxic and Non-Toxic Plant Guide.