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Pet-Friendly Landscaping in Auburn & Opelika: How to Create a Safe, Stylish Yard for Your Furry Friends

  • Writer: RIP Landscapes
    RIP Landscapes
  • Jun 13
  • 3 min read

If you're a pet owner in Auburn or Opelika, AL, you already know that your yard isn’t just for relaxing or entertaining — it’s your pet’s playground, too. But not all landscaping choices are pet-safe, and some can even pose serious health risks to your furry companions.

At RIP Landscapes, we believe your outdoor space should be both beautiful and pet-friendly. In this article, we’ll show you how to design a yard that keeps your pets safe, active, and happy — without sacrificing curb appeal.

Golden retriever lying on green grass with a stick and ball, enjoying a pet-friendly backyard in Auburn, AL

1. Choose Pet-Safe Plants (and Avoid the Toxic Ones)

Some popular landscape plants can be harmful — even deadly — to cats and dogs. Before planting, always double-check that your choices are safe.

Toxic plants to avoid:


  • Azaleas

  • Oleander

  • Sago palm

  • Foxglove

  • Lilies (especially dangerous for cats)

Pet-safe alternatives:

  • Marigolds

  • Fescue grass

  • Snapdragons

  • Sunflowers

  • Bee balm (also attracts pollinators!)

Bonus tip: Native plants are often a safer bet — they’re adapted to Alabama’s climate and require fewer chemical treatments.

White dog wearing a harness sitting in a field of vibrant yellow wildflowers, surrounded by pet-safe native plants in Alabama

2. Use Durable, Paw-Friendly Ground Covers

Bare patches, muddy paws, and holes are common when pets have free rein in the yard. Here are a few ground covers that stand up well to wear and tear:

  • Clover: Soft, hardy, and drought-tolerant.

  • Mulch (pet-safe): Cedar mulch is a safer option, while cocoa mulch should be avoided — it’s toxic to dogs.

  • Artificial turf: A great low-maintenance solution, especially for small yards or dog runs.

Avoid sharp gravel or loose stone — it can get lodged in paws or swallowed.

Four dogs running and playing on a green, durable lawn with white fencing and trees in a pet-friendly backyard

3. Design Paw-Safe Hardscaping

When installing patios, pathways, or retaining walls, consider how your pet will interact with them.

Dog-friendly hardscape ideas:

  • Use smooth pavers or natural stone that won’t heat up too much in the sun.

  • Avoid jagged edges or loose bricks that could injure running paws.

  • Add shaded areas where your pet can rest after zoomies or fetch sessions.

Bonus: Hardscaping not only creates defined spaces for your pet to roam, but also adds value and structure to your landscape design.


Small Yorkshire Terrier standing on a paver patio with outdoor chairs in the background, highlighting pet-friendly hardscaping design


4. Keep Your Yard Secure with Smart Fencing Solutions

If your dog loves to explore, a well-designed fence is a must. But it’s not just about height — it’s about strategy.

Tips:

  • Make sure fencing is buried or secured at the base to prevent digging escapes.

  • For smaller pets, opt for narrow gaps to avoid squeezes or escapes.

  • Decorative options like living hedges or lattice fences blend security with style.

Pro tip: Avoid chicken wire or cheap plastic — not only are they unsightly, but they can be dangerous for active pets.

Medium-sized dog looking through a secure chain-link fence in a shaded, grassy backyard for pet-safe containment

5. Provide Shade, Water, and Cooling Zones

Alabama summers can be intense — and dogs and cats can overheat quickly. Here’s how to build in comfort:

  • Install a permanent shaded area using trees, pergolas, or shade sails.

  • Consider a pet-friendly water feature like a shallow splash fountain.

  • Keep clean water bowls outdoors in a shady area — just be sure to refresh them regularly.

If you're worried about mosquitoes, call us to ask about safe water features and pest control options.

Curly-haired dog jumping into a backyard pool chasing a toy, next to another dog and a person, showing pet cooling zone design

6. Maintain a Lawn That Withstands Pet Traffic

Dogs running across the same path can wear down your grass and leave bare patches. Here’s how to keep it green:

  • Use tough, fast-growing grass types like fescue or Bermuda.

  • Rotate your pet’s play areas to allow grass to recover.

  • Install a designated pet relief area with gravel or artificial turf to limit urine burn.

And if digging is a problem? Create a “dig zone” with loose soil or sand and train your dog to dig only there.


Yellow Labrador Retriever sitting upright in a springtime lawn full of blooming dandelions in a well-maintained pet-friendly yard

Final Thoughts: A Yard Your Pet Will Love (and You’ll Be Proud Of)

You don’t have to choose between a beautiful yard and a pet-friendly one. With thoughtful design and the right materials, your outdoor space can do both — and RIP Landscapes is here to help make it happen.

Ready to Build the Perfect Pet-Friendly Landscape?

At RIP Landscapes, we specialize in pet-friendly landscaping services in Auburn & Opelika that’s both safe for your pets and stunning to look at. Whether you need a full redesign or just a few thoughtful upgrades, our team will help you create a yard both you and your furry friends will love.


Contact RIP Landscapes today for a free consultation!


334-524-9853

 
 
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