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PETS, KIDS AND YOUR YARD
Although your yard or garden is a great place for kids and pets to enjoy, it can also be dangerous. Common yard and garden items such as plant food, fertilizer, and certain types of plants can be toxic to animals and humans. Being safe, however, is easy when you know how to go about it.
Use natural repellents. You can keep dogs and cats out of your gardens by planting natural repellents. For instance, dogs and cats find the scent of Coleus canina distasteful. To keep pets out, plant these annual and lavender flowers around your gardens. Keep your children out of certain areas in the yard or garden by teaching them where they can and can't go and by putting up attractive borders or fencing. Know your toxic plants. Many beautiful plants, if ingested, can be toxic to humans and animals. Some non-toxic plants can also cause irritation or allergic reactions. Also, keep in mind that some plants are safe for humans but toxic to animals. For instance, aloe, Easter lilies, daffodils, English ivy, and tulips are all poisonous to animals. For a list of toxic and non-toxic plants, contact your local poison control center.  Read the labels. Not only will reading labels on lawn and garden products inform you about how to use the product correctly, you will also learn whether the product is toxic. If you want to be completely safe, avoid chemicals by using organic or chemical-free products. If you have to use toxic lawn and garden products, be sure to use child- and pet-resistant packaging and keep the products locked up when not in use.
Give everyone their place. If kids and animals have areas outside that are appealing to explore, they are less likely to go where you don't want them. You can give your dog his own digging pit, for example. Cat owners can plant catnip in an outdoor plot or window box. Kids should also have their own area, filled with plenty of things to do. Swing sets and sandboxes are always good for entertainment and exercise. You can also set up a soccer net or basketball goal. Remember, for all your real estate needs, call Catherine. Sincerely, Catherine Bennison - Realtor Associate |
Rainer
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