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How to make your backyard safe for dogs BY METRO Dogs, particularly puppies, can be full of boundless energy. Chan- neling that energy into exercise with long walks or play sessions can help stem dogs' propensity to get into trouble around the house as they burn off extra adrenaline. Pets who don't have an energy outlet may chew off-limits objects or get into other mischief. According to the American Kennel Club, the amount of exercise a dog needs depends on the animal's age and breed. For example, bor- der collies or Siberian huskies may require much more exercise than English bulldogs, simply because the former are working breeds. Pet owners with large backyards often find those outdoor spots are ideal for when their dogs get the "zoomies," some- thing that tends to be a daily occurrence. Letting their dogs run around yards, whether on their own or chasing tossed tennis balls, is an ideal way to provide exercise and tire out pups. In such scenarios, it's vital that pups have a dog-friendly yard in which to play. Use safe lawn care products An expanse of grass is the perfect place to frolic or enjoy some sunbath- ing — for people or pets. But contact with chemi- cally treated lawns can cause a number of health issues for dogs, such as allergies or intestinal problems. Switching to native grasses can reduce the need to use chemicals to get lush lawns. When supplementation is needed, homeowners can switch to organic products or natural com- post as safer alternatives than chemical-based products. Fence off the yard Off-leash running and bounding through the yard will make any dog smile. However, a fence is a must-have to ensure a dog doesn't become an escape art- ist. Be sure the fence is high enough so that the pup cannot jump over it. Burying chicken wire in the dirt beneath the lower edge of the fence also can help prevent dogs who like to dig and then crawl underneath the fence. Consider installing a lock on the fence gate so that no one can wander in and surprise the dog, which may startle the animal and prompt it to defend the property. A lock also helps prevent dog theft. Keep the yard tidy Maintaining a clean yard also is key to safety. Inspect the yard regularly to make sure nothing is around that can prove harmful, whether it's poison ivy, felled branches or bro- ken fence panels. Also, keep shrubs and grass trimmed to reduce flea and tick populations on the property. No poisonous plants Certain plants can be dangerous if they're con- sumed by curious pups. Chrysanthemums, peo- nies, irises and hydran- geas are some plants that can be poisonous. For a full list of poison- ous plants, visit aspca. org, the ASPCA website. Keep an eye on pets Dogs can spend some unattended time in the yard, but check in from time to time. Should wildlife get into the yard, dogs may get hurt by tussles or bites. Birds of prey, such as owls, hawks and even vultures, may attack small dogs in a yard. According to Pat Silvosky, director of the Milford Nature Center in Kansas, some birds can be territorial. While they might not view a dog as an easy meal, they could swoop down and attack to defend territory. The same may occur with other wild animals. A dog-friendly yard may require a little effort to create, but it's worth a little sweat equity to keep pups safe. Robson Homes is proud to welcome you to an extraordinary enclave of exquisitely designed custom homes in the Cambrian area of San Jose. 4-bedroom homes with ADUs 2,831 to 3,785 square feet Offered from $2.85 million BROKERS WELCOME 408-761-9219 RobsonHomes.com Models Open Daily 2076 Cully Place San Jose, CA 95124 4.75 % 10/1 ARM * *Select homes only. Builder does not provide financing. Rate as of 3/22/2023 provided by Builder's Approved Lender for 10/1 ARM with buy down based on specific assumptions including down payment and credit score. Rate and program terms are not guaranteed and subject to change without notice or obligation. Notice regarding Adjustable Rate Mortgages: Interest is fixed for a set period of time, and adjusts periodically thereafter. At the end of the fixed rate period, the interest and monthly payments may increase. Get an official Loan Estimate before choosing a loan. Homes | Advertising Supplement 001 BAY AREA NEWS GROUP H3