Keeping your outdoor space clean and well-maintained can be a challenge, especially if you have multiple furry companions. Between muddy paws, shedding fur, and the constant presence of pet waste, your landscape can quickly become a mess.

However, with a few thoughtful and practical strategies, you can maintain a clean and enjoyable environment for both your pets and your family. Here's a guide to help you keep your yard spotless while ensuring your pets have a safe space to roam.

Understanding the Challenges of Multiple Pets

When you have more than one pet, the upkeep of your landscape becomes more complex. Multiple pets mean increased activity, more waste to manage, and a higher likelihood of wear and tear in your yard.

Digging, running, and playing can leave patches of bare soil, while pet waste can harm the grass and lead to unpleasant odors. These challenges are magnified if your pets include both dogs and cats, as their habits and waste management needs differ.

Beyond aesthetics, cleanliness is essential for health reasons. Uncollected pet waste can attract pests, harbor harmful bacteria, and contaminate nearby water sources. For dog owners, in particular, managing the outdoor space is not just about keeping things tidy. It’s about creating an environment that promotes wellness for pets and humans alike.

How many Americans own pets?

Over 66 percent of Americans, as of 2023, owned at least one pet. That means that in 2023, around 87 million US homes had a pet. A survey found that millennials make up the largest group of pet owners in the US, with many viewing their pets as their children.

Designing a Pet-Friendly Landscape

Creating a pet-friendly landscape is one of the best ways to minimize the mess caused by your furry friends.

Start by assessing your yard and identifying areas that might need special attention. If you have grass, choose durable, pet-resistant varieties. Bermuda and Kentucky bluegrass, in particular, are very “dog-friendly” varieties. That means these types of grass can withstand heavy paw traffic.

Incorporate designated areas for your pets to play and relieve themselves. Gravel, artificial turf, or mulch can make cleaning up after your pets easier and prevent muddy paws from tracking dirt inside. Adding fencing or barriers can help protect delicate plants and flowers from curious noses and digging paws.

How much do you have to pay for landscaping in the US?

Professional landscaping typically costs around $3,651, with most projects ranging from $1,249 to $6,281. Costs can vary significantly, from $750 for tasks like tree removal or planting flowers to over $6,010 for a complete backyard makeover.

Hiring a Pet Waste Removal Service

For many pet owners, managing pet waste is the least enjoyable part of having animals. Picking up after your pets, especially when you have more than one, can feel like a never-ending chore.

This is where hiring a pet waste removal service becomes invaluable. As Scoop Soldiers explains, these services specialize in cleaning up after your pet’s waste. That, in turn, saves you time and effort while ensuring that your outdoor space remains sanitary.

A pet waste service is particularly beneficial for dog owners who may struggle to keep up with the sheer volume of waste. Professionals come equipped with the right tools to handle the job efficiently, removing every trace of poop and leaving your yard pristine. Not only does this improve your yard’s appearance, but it also reduces the risk of bacteria and parasites lingering in your lawn.

Another advantage of using a pet waste removal service is their expertise in waste management. They understand how to safely dispose of pet waste in an environmentally friendly manner, helping you reduce your ecological footprint. For households with busy schedules, these services are a practical solution to maintaining a clean and healthy yard for your pets.

Moreover, hiring professionals can improve the overall quality of life for your family and neighbors. Nobody enjoys the smell or sight of neglected pet waste, and outsourcing this task ensures that your yard remains a pleasant space for everyone.

Managing Odors and Hygiene

Odor control is a significant concern for pet owners with multiple animals. Pet waste, combined with urine and outdoor elements, can quickly lead to unpleasant smells.

To combat this, regularly deodorize your yard with pet-safe products. Enzymatic cleaners are an excellent option, as they break down organic matter and neutralize odors at the source.

Maintaining proper hygiene also extends to your pets. Regular grooming, including cleaning their paws and trimming their nails, helps minimize the dirt and debris they bring into your yard. Also, keeping your pets’ living areas, such as dog houses or outdoor beds, clean contributes to the overall freshness of your outdoor space.

Involving the Whole Family

Keeping your landscape clean isn’t a one-person job. Involve your entire household in maintaining a tidy yard, especially if multiple family members enjoy spending time with the pets. Assign age-appropriate tasks to children, like refilling water bowls or gathering toys, while adults handle more significant responsibilities like waste collection.

By sharing the workload, you create a sense of teamwork and responsibility. It also helps teach children the importance of caring for animals and respecting shared spaces.

How much do Americans spend on their pets?

In 2023, Americans spent a whopping $147 billion on their pets, with $64.4 billion going toward food and treats. Veterinary care and product sales added up to about $38.3 billion, while services like grooming accounted for $12.3 billion.

The Long-Term Benefits of a Clean Yard

A clean landscape does more than enhance your home’s curb appeal; it creates a safe and comfortable environment for your pets to thrive. Pets that have access to a tidy outdoor space are less likely to develop health issues related to unsanitary conditions. A well-maintained yard also provides them with room to exercise, explore, and play, promoting their physical and mental well-being.

For you and your family, a clean yard means fewer pests, reduced odors, and a space where you can relax and entertain without embarrassment. Over time, the effort you invest in keeping your landscape clean pays off in the form of a healthier, happier household.