Something to bark about
Pet-friendly businesses are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. More and more properties, including resorts, restaurants, and retail centers, are welcoming pets into their establishments. The reason behind this trend is that people are increasingly enjoying spending time with their furry companions. Office spaces have responded positively to the idea of bringing pets to work, while hotels are seeing a surge in guest numbers as pets are welcomed in their rooms. So how can landscaping welcome business by way of becoming Fido friendly?
Pet owners understand that landscaping can significantly impact our pets’ well-being. We’re aware of the allergens, the plants to steer clear of, and the ideal grass for fetch. As more and more facilities welcome dogs and cats, landscaping must be a crucial consideration. From my personal experience, I stayed at a pet-friendly hotel, but the space for potty breaks was poorly lit in the evening. This left my dog and me navigating a poorly landscaped area behind the building near the doorways. As daylight approached, I realized the poor execution of this space. There was no walking path, grass that my dog was allergic to, and no designated area for potty breaks. This posed two issues. First, it indirectly encouraged guests to walk their pets in common areas, which could lead to conflicts for other guests with allergies. Not to mention, if the pet isn’t cleaned up after, other guests may find unwelcome mess on their luggage and shoes. Second, it made guests with pets question the property’s true pet-friendliness. If a guest feels unsafe walking in a dimly lit parking lot area, they may reconsider their next visit.
Most properties are wise enough to realize that they can’t possibly pet-proof every single feature of their property. This is where new landscaping design comes into play. Today, more and more properties are implementing “pet parks” and “pet gardens.” These spaces welcome clients, guests, and their leashed companions into green areas specifically designed for them.
What goes into a pro-paw green space? It's really not complicated!
For an apartment complex, landscaping might include a fenced-in dog run with durable, pet-safe turf, shaded seating areas for residents, and waste stations strategically placed throughout the property to maintain cleanliness. Plant choices would prioritize non-toxic varieties like ornamental grasses and sturdy shrubs, ensuring the safety of pets.
In an office park, you might find wide walking paths designed for quick dog breaks, shaded green spaces with trees providing cooling cover, and natural mulch alternatives that are safer for paws. The lawn care plan would avoid harsh chemicals and opt for pet-safe treatments instead.
Retail centers can enhance the experience by adding small “pet relief areas” with easy-drain gravel, artificial turf specifically designed for pets, and clear signage welcoming dogs. Incorporating water stations and shaded benches makes the space more inviting for shoppers with furry companions.
My experience I mentioned? Pet-friendly hotels can elevate their offerings by incorporating pet-friendly courtyards with soft groundcover, secure fencing, and ample lighting for early morning or late-night walks, ensuring the comfort and safety of pets.
If businesses are going to make the endeavor to welcome pets, making sure their property is pet positive is essential. Phoenix Landscape Solutions offers pet positive installations, from dog parks to dog walks. Nose to tail, we will create a space for revenue and Rover.
