This Santa Clara couple did an Express Garden to come up with a plant pallet that would encourage hummingbirds while also being a safe haven for their two new dogs. Since puppies are known for nibbling, the plants selected were not only durable but also non-toxic. The theme is causal, low maintenance and relaxing.

The homeowner’s favorite pastime is to sit under under the arbor with his laptop on a sunny day and hang out with the dogs.

Local nurseries sell many common landscape plants that can be poisonous to pets. To add insult to injury, plants don’t come with a toxic warning label.

The level of toxicity will depend on the plant, the part of the plant  and  amount ingested, along with your pet’s current health. Not every animal will eat a toxic plant but some pets are simply more curious than others. If you want to err on the side of caution, here are some plants that you may want to avoid entirely or put in areas of your garden that are off limits to nibbling pets.

Lilies (Lilium sp.) are considered to be highly toxic to cats and can result in severe kidney damage even if small amounts are ingested.

Sago Palm (Cycas Revoluta) all parts of this palm are poisonous, but the seeds contain the greatest amount of toxin.  Just one or two ingested seeds can have serious effects including vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and liver failure.

Azalea/Rhododendron (Rhododenron sp.) contains grayantoxins which can produce vomiting, diarrhea, weakness and if severe enough, ultimately lead to coma and death from cardiovascular collapse.

Oleander (Nerium oleander) all parts of the plant are considered to be toxic, as they contain cardiac glycosides that can have serious effects like gastrointestinal tract irritation, abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death.

Yew (Taxus sp.) contains a toxic substance known as taxine, which affects the central nervous system causing trembling, lack of coordination and difficulty breathing. It can also cause gastrointestinal irritation and cardiac failure.

Daphne (Daphne sp.) is prized for its scented flowers but all parts of the plant are poisonous and just a few berries could kill an animal.

Lantana (Lantana sp.) berries contain high levels of toxins if ingested while they are still green, causing vomiting, diarrhea, labored breathing, and weakness.

English Ivy (Hedera helix) contains triterpenoid saponins that can result in vomiting, abdominal pain, drooling and diarrhea.

Plants are not the only danger in the garden. Keeping your pet away from insecticides (used in the garden to kill insects), herbicides (for killing weeds) and rodenticides (rat bait) is not really difficult if you take an organic approach to gardening. By working with Mother Nature, not against her, you’ll find a healthy eco-system that is happy to coexist with you and your pets.

Lastly, be aware of what type of mulch you bring into your dogscape. Cocoa mulch, a byproduct of chocolate production, contains the same toxic compounds as chocolate, which is poisonous to dogs. Coir or Coconut Husk mulch is known for its ability to retain water around water loving plants. However, this same expansion will occur in a dog’s digestive track if ingested and potentially cause blockage in the intestines.

Even with the best prevention strategies, accidents can happen. If your pet exhibits any of the following signs of poisoning, contact your vet for immediate assistance: digestive trouble (vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite), neuromuscular injury (seizure, paralysis, labored breathing), confusion, excessive tear production or rashes.

For an extensive list of toxic plants for dogs and cats, visit the ASPCA’s website at www.aspca.org

Animal Poison Control Center’s hotline is available 24 hours a day (for a small fee)  to help pet owners with potential poisoning questions (888) 426-4435

The clients are a family of five with young children and two dogs living on 1.5 rural acres in the hills of Los Gatos, CA. Their desire was to create a safe and fun space for themselves and outdoor entertaining with other families. They requested multiple outdoor rooms for adults and children, all water-wise plantings, and a space that would highlight their amazing views of a nature preserve.

In the backyard, the existing site conditions were typical of a lot purchased with a new remodeled home without landscaping. In other words, we started with an almost blank slate. Grading and drainage had been done by the general contractor which left a natural toe to a downward slope which reached a private gate to the nature preserve trails. The drainage included a dry creek swale that ran the entire length on one side of the property sloping down toward the preserve. The home is situated in a mixed oak woodland and chaparral community with dense clay soils. As a point of reference for you horticulturists reading this, Barrie Coate’s home is just a couple homes over.

As for offsite conditions, the client desired visual privacy from their two neighbors on either side while highlighting the view directly in back of them of the beautiful mixed woodland forest. One neighbor has a huge utility shed that is in poor condition, where we planted a row of native privacy screening plants such as Toyon, Pacific Wax Myrtle and the hybrid, Leyland Cypress.

Working as the principal designer with a design/build company allowed me the opportunity to use my knowledge of not only hardscape, plants, rainwater harvesting, and lighting but also construction details. Since the design/build company was providing both the installation and the ongoing maintenance, I knew the clients and my design intention were in good hands.

Given my experience working with a leading rainwater harvesting architect, I knew that the first consideration to the design had to be irrigation. The clients were already on well water (25,000 gallons with 1 dedicated tank for fire protection) so I suggested a rainwater and grey water system to meet their landscaping water budget needs. At the client’s request, I designed a 2,400 SF lawn to accommodate a soccer, baseball, croquet and possible future pool area. With some research and training, the landscape contractor became the first Northern Californian certified installer for a new system of “passive rainwater harvesting”. Essentially, the sod is laid over sand and then over the water collection system which has perforated holes facing up. The lawn is irrigated with rainwater through a wicking process similar to osmosis. The grey water was used through drip irrigation for the remainder of the decorative planter beds.

Outdoors rooms were created for the children including: a play structure with playhouse, a small rock jumping planter bed, a lawn play area and pathways for exploration leading from room to room. For adults and entertaining I designed a full kitchen with arbor, a steam room and a meandering trail that leads to the nature preserve. This view was left unimpeded and some trees were removed to accentuate the forest view. For the dogs, a pet run at the side yard was designed and a perimeter fencing for the backyard for safety.

The planting concept was inspired by California natives around the perimeter planting to match the existing site and focal Mediterranean plants with high color and texture closest to the center of the yard.

Some elements that were designed but not implemented yet include: an edible garden, dwarf tree orchard, greenhouse, vineyard, water feature, custom iron automatic gate, and compost bins. These items are being installed in the front yard in phases. Originally the play structure in the backyard was a custom design that took advantage of the slope with two structures and a connecting bridge. Due to value engineering (AKA budget cuts), this was the only part of the backyard design that the clients choose to do prefabricated instead of custom.

Clients John and Nancy, a retired couple in Mountain View, enjoy traveling, spending time with their family and growing their own vegetables. They came to me with a request that many people have these days, “Design us a private sanctuary that is fun and safe for my grandchildren and the dog, but also make it easy to maintain.”

No problem! We began with a site analysis of their corner lot property noting the strengths and challenges of each area. Since they had a full sun side yard, it was obvious where the new edible garden would reside. We said goodbye to the circa 1970’s pittosporum hedges and designed multiple raised planter beds, wire trellises for grape vines and a cut flower area. A single post arbor frames the guest bedroom window while still allowing in sunlight and begins the wire trellis vine support.

The backyard had an existing pool, hot tub and nice shade canopy that made growing a traditional lawn impossible. By extending the fence line out towards the veggie area, we reclaimed some much needed space for a covered sand pit for the grandchildren to play in and a larger turf area for their elderly golden retriever to nap on. We reworked the circulation pathways and got rid of the tripping hazards from the mossy flagstone and the awkward entry to the hot tub.

With our motto of more fun with less work, we made two major decisions. Keep most of the shade canopy intact and install realistic (artificial) turf that will save the homeowners time and money from mowing, fertilizing and dog urine burn spots.

Additional seating was added to allow them different points to relax in the garden. Probably the most relaxing and most requested place to sit in the garden is in the “air chair” swing! Another relaxing place is under the single post arbor flanked by ceramic glazed pots which gives a great view of the new water feature.

With the fun of the vegetables, cut flowers, sand pit, and swing with the relaxing elements of the water feature, no-mow lawn and hot tub, what’s not to love?

Landscape construction provided by SouthBay Landscaping.

Click here for the before images and to see their landscape design plan.

The increasing number of dog owners who wish to have gardens that suit dogs as well as humans, accounts for a new movement called Petscaping.

To have a successful dog-friendly space that you will enjoy, too, consider your dog’s behavior along with your personal needs and garden desires. Does your dog act out the callings of his breed by being a herder, hunter, patroller, digger, retriever or lounger? Observe these important characteristics over several days, even weeks.  Dogs are creatures of habit and prefer to patrol the same paths, enjoy the same sunny spots and deposit their waste in nearly the same areas each day.

When designing your yard for the herding or patrolling dogs, pay attention to the paths and plantings around the fence line since well-traveled paths will show wear if left bare. Instead, mulch heavily along their paths and plant shrubs and trees several feet away from fences keeping them pruned up from the ground to allow him damage-free access.  To the spaces under the shrubs, create a natural lounging spot by adding a thick layer of soft wood-chip mulch. Avoid cocoa and coir/coconut husk mulch which can be toxic or harmful if ingested.

Digging can be the most destructive behavior, especially to young plants; fortunately you have choices to consider. Some dogs dig to cool down, others to make escape tunnels. Many dig simply because they’re bored. Give her a digging pit to encourage her habit and relieve her boredom. Train her to dig only in her dedicated area by planting dog goodies like a Kong toy stuffed with pungent treats. Burry treats at incremental levels for her to uncover and be sure to repeat often.  Another idea that is fun for pets and their companions is to attend a doggie training or agility class. These types of programs keep your dog mentally focused and engaged in positive behaviors which you can encourage at home, helping to curb less than ideal habits.

In areas that you want to discourage and conceal digging, plant a fast growing vine that can be trained as a groundcover, like Star Jasmine, Trachelospermum jasminoides. But if you have an “escape artist” digger, you may wish to install a low concrete barrier under your fences. As an additional precaution, especially if you live on a busy street, consider a double entry system with auto-closers at the outer gate. In case one gate is left open, the other acts as a fail-safe. The enclosed area can double as a utility area, dog bathing station or even a temporary dog run. Once you have your dog’s habits noted on your landscape base plan, you can begin to plug in their basic needs. Always consider safety, sufficient shade, dry shelter, clean drinking water, adequate fencing, and a good potty and exercise area.

Safety is key to any people or pet space. Prudent plant choices in your landscape mean avoiding thorny, spiny, sappy and toxic plants. Small dog breeds and puppies are especially sensitive to toxins because of their limited body size. For an extensive list of toxic plants visit the ASPCA’s website at www.aspca.org

Many people think a large lawn ensures dog exercise space. While most dogs enjoy a good run at the park, that is no reason for you to turn your backyard into one. As a water-wise alternative to traditional turf, consider a soft hardscape like decomposed granite or smooth gravel. Pea gravel with ample base rock underneath also makes for a great potty area. If you still crave the greenery of grass, consider a no-mow lawn that can be created with bunch grass like California Meadow Sedge, Carex pansa, which stands up to heavy paw traffic. Regardless of your choice, never use synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. If you do use an organic method, rinse down the area immediately after application to allow soak-in time, before the pet uses the area.

Lastly, consider what special requirements may develop as your dog ages. If your dog’s breed is susceptible to hip dysplasia, think about the future need for smooth, level walking surfaces and wide corners for dog wheelchairs.

Now that you have considered your pet’s needs, what are you looking for in a garden? Will you entertain, grow edibles, read, or play ball with children? In other words, make another list of all the desired human activities.

There’s always a way to marry the needs of humans and dogs. For example, if you want to grow edibles, think about a raised planter bed that will be out of sight and at a height away from leg lifters and dogs that mark.  Petscaping is all about coexistence instead of forfeiting an attractive garden. When in doubt, hire a professional landscape designer. We can help creatively find solutions to balance everyone’s needs.

Julie Orr is a member of Association of Professional Landscape Designers, specializing in pet-friendly, water-wise, low maintenance gardens. Julie grew up with a petscape full of dogs, cats, rabbits, birds, chickens and a tortoise. www.julieorrdesign.com

A garden can be a safe, comfortable and fun space for pets as well as an attractive environment for people. When working with a landscape professional, ask them to design and care for your garden with your pet in mind. Do you have an escape artist dog, a rambunctious cat or an elderly animal peacefully living out their golden years? Here are some things you should consider.The most basic needs for outdoor pets are adequate fencing, shelter from the elements, clean fresh water, enough space to move about, and a place to ‘do their business.’ A yard with a good balance of sun and shade, trees, shrubs, paths and paved spaces, will be comfortable for both you and your pet, so plan with those elements in mind.

Petscaping for Dogs

Garden designed by Julie Orr Design

Many dogs have strong protector instincts, and want to patrol the perimeter of your yard. Planting shrubs and trees several feet away from fences and keeping them pruned up from the ground will allow him damage-free access. The spaces under the shrubs will also make natural lounging spots. A thick layer of soft wood-chip mulch will create a natural bed. You may choose a distant corner as a place to go when it’s ‘business time.’

If your pooch is a digger who longs for freedom, you may wish to install a low concrete barrier under your fences. As an additional precaution, especially if you live on a busy street, consider a double entry system with auto-closers at the outer gate. In case one gate is left open, the other acts as a fail-safe. The enclosed area can be a utility area, dog bathing station or even a temporary kennel as necessary. If your utilities can be located in this dog-free zone, your meter-reader will thank you.

If you have very big or rambunctious dog and wish to protect your new landscape, it is good to have a dedicated dog area. Side yards make natural dog runs, but for a happier pooch, consider extending it out into the living area so the dog can still be part of the family. There should be shade, a faucet & hose to keep water bowls fresh, and a foot-friendly clean surface such as cedar mulch (repels fleas too) or pea gravel installed with drain rock underneath for easy cleanups and spray downs. If you don’t choose to have a dog run, you may want to consider temporary wire cages around any susceptible plants until they are settled in.

Petscaping for Cats

For cats consider the same basic elements on a somewhat smaller scale. Their habits are different from their doggie counterparts. Whereas dogs prefer to be a part of the action most of the time, cats are content to be on their own for hours and will let you know when they are in need of your company. Low shrubs and grasses that they can lounge under are perfect. Another cat favorite is to roll in dry, warm areas like pavers, flagstone, or even better, gravel or gold fines. Always protect your kitty from dangers of the road, cat fights and other animals. Use a cat enclosure in the garden or simply keep your cat indoors- my cat has live happily for 17 years indoors.

If your cat’s middle name isn’t bird killer, a pondless ceramic fountain can provide hours of entertainment with visiting insects and birds while also supplying fresh, moving water to your feline. Be sure to always add fresh water either manually or via your irrigation system and never add chlorine.

Although none of us want to think about our pet getting old, it’s good to remember that aging pets may develop special needs. My vet once told me that pets age like humans do. We both start to lose muscle mass, skin starts to sag, and joints begin to hurt. As pets get older, they also tend to become less mobile. Consider the future possibility of needing smooth walking surfaces and wide corners for dog-karts (wheelchairs) and ramps or steps for cats that can no longer leap to their destinations.

The largest request I get from clients is to create a safe, non-toxic environment for their family, their pets and their guests. Since your pets feet aren’t protected with shoes while in the garden (and they lick their feet), specify plants that need little to no fertilizer or pesticide. If you must use, try an organic fertilizer and spray irrigate immediately after application to dissolve completely. For pesky weeds, remove manually and try to prevent them from seeding in the first place with non-toxic weed abatement made from corn meal or a natural smothering method called sheet mulching.

Consider pet-friendly plants in your landscape by avoiding thorny, spiny, sappy and toxic plants that can be harmful to your pet. For an extensive list of toxic plants for dogs and cats visit: http://aspca.org/pet-care/poison-control/plants/. Besides rhododendrons, other common plants that can be toxic, and even deadly to pets are: azaleas, cycad palms, oleander, foxglove, lily of the valley and castor bean. Many pets investigate by tasting, so never assume that your pet won’t eat a new plant introduced to the landscape or home. If your pet has eaten a plant that may be toxic, don’t waste time trying to induce vomiting, call a veterinary immediately.

Hardy and useful plants for dogs and cats include bunch grasses and sedges. A cat favorite is Carex divulsa, Berkeley Sedge, a perfect grass to hide behind, sleep on top of and to pounce on.