The Only Pet Artificial Grass Guide You Need

As a proud pet parent in Australia, finding ways to make your furry friend’s life happier and healthier is something we all want.

One fabulous innovation that has been gaining ground among pet owners is the use of pet artificial grass. For dog owners, this means addressing concerns about safety, maintenance, and how their pets interact with the artificial turf. Not only does it turn your yard into a beautiful, evergreen space, but it also offers a load of benefits tailored for your four-legged buddy.

What Makes Artificial Grass Ideal for Pets?

As a pet owner, you always want what’s best for your furry friends – a space where they can play freely without getting hurt or dirty. Artificial grass fits the bill perfectly. So, why exactly is artificial grass considered ideal for pets? Here are a few compelling reasons.

• Durability: Artificial grass is more durable and can withstand the energetic play of pets better than natural grass. No matter how much your pets run around or dig, the surface remains intact.
• Easy Maintenance: Artificial grass doesn’t require fertilisers, mowing, or significant amounts of water to maintain its lush green look. It remains vibrant throughout the year, offering your pet a constant play area.
• No Mud, No Mess: After a good play session, pets are often left dragging mud and dirt into your home with natural grass. Artificial grass eliminates this problem entirely, leaving your pet – and your home – cleaner. Maintaining real grass with pets can be challenging due to the damage and discolouration caused by dog urine, which can also result in foul odours and unsanitary conditions.
• Safe and Non-Toxic: High-quality artificial grass is non-toxic and safe for pets. Pets can roll around, play, and even nibble on artificial grass without fear of chemicals or toxins.
• Comfort: Fake grass provides a soft, comfortable surface for pets to walk, run, and play on. It is gentler on their paws than concrete or natural grass with hard soil.

How to Choose Artificial Grass for Pets

As a dedicated pet owner, your furry friend’s comfort and safety are paramount. This involves the surface they play on, right in your backyard. So, when it comes to selecting the ideal artificial grass for your pets, we recommend considering the following: 

• Material: Ensure that your artificial grass is made of non-toxic, pet-friendly materials. Look for products that are free from lead or other harmful chemicals. Older or imported artificial grass is sometimes treated with lead, which is known to harm pets if ingested.
• Drainage Holes: Like children, pets enjoy their outdoor play sessions. Occasional bathroom breaks are a given. Adequate drainage is essential to prevent lingering moisture and the accumulation of associated odours or bacteria. Quality artificial grass designed for pets usually comes with efficient drainage systems.
• Texture and Comfort: Choose synthetic grass that is soft and gentle on your pet’s paws. Look at the texture; it should not be too coarse to cause discomfort or too smooth to lead to slips and falls.
• Durability: If your pet is energetic and playful, your artificial turf should be durable enough to endure their frolicking. Inspect the turf’s resistance to wear and tear, ensuring it remains in good condition despite your pet’s activities.
• Installation Process: Find out if the artificial grass requires professional installation or if it can be a DIY project. There may be cost implications and time constraints to consider. If you need professional assistance, Trinity Landscape & Sports is more than happy to help!

How to Install Fake Pet Grass:

Installing artificial grass for your pets is simple with the right supplies and guidance. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

To make installation easy, make sure you have the following supplies:

• Artificial grass rolls
• Weed barrier
• Infill (silica sand or rubber granules)
• Pegs or nails
• Industrial gloves
• Utility knife or specialised cutting tools

Steps for installation: 

1. Remove any existing grass, weeds or debris from the base.
2. Level the surface and compact the soil to create a solid base.
3. Lay down a weed barrier to prevent future growth.
4. Lay down the artificial grass and trim to size.
5. Ensure superior drainage by checking that the artificial grass’s backing and mesh design effectively allows water and urine to flow through. This step is important to minimise unpleasant odours and maintain a clean, healthy outdoor space for your pets.
6. Secure the grass with pegs or nails along the edges.
7. Apply infill to weigh down the grass and give it a more natural feel.

Is Pet-Friendly Synthetic Grass Safe?

If you’re wondering about the safety of artificial grass for your pets, rest assured that it is an excellent and safe choice. A synthetic lawn is expertly prepared for highly active pets and can withstand their activities, making it ideal for creating a dog-friendly environment. The main concern here is whether the materials used are non-toxic and pet-friendly.

The good news is that most reputable manufacturers today design their artificial turfs with pets in mind, using materials free from hazardous substances. At Trinity, for example, we only use the highest quality fake grass for those looking for a pet premium system for their backyard.

How to Care for Fake Grass When You Have Pets

As a pet owner, maintaining a clean and neat space is important for your furry friends’ health and your peace of mind.

High-quality artificial grass can help reduce unpleasant odours by using advanced designs and materials that limit urine absorption and prevent the spread of bacteria.

While artificial grass offers ease of maintenance, handling pet waste can seem daunting initially. Fortunately, with the right care routine, pets and artificial grass can coexist harmoniously.

Cleaning Solid Waste

First and foremost, pick up solid waste just as you would in any other situation. A handy pooper scooper or a pair of gloves will do the trick. Regular removal of solid waste prevents the build-up of bacteria and keeps your space looking clean. 

Addressing Liquid Waste

Most pet owners worry about pet urine stains and odour on their new synthetic turf. The good news is that high-quality artificial grass for pets is designed to be permeable. This allows dog urine to seep into the sub-base layer naturally, effectively preventing damage and discolouration.

To minimise any odour, rinse the area with water or use a fake turf deodoriser from pet supply stores. The deodoriser will also disinfect to keep your grass clean and fresh and safe for your pet to frolic on.

Enhanced Cleanliness with Regular Maintenance

Occasionally, give your grass a comprehensive clean. Use a non-toxic, pet-friendly cleaning solution to mop the grass surface gently. Follow this with a grass brush to give your artificial lawn a natural, freshened-up look. 

Caring for your artificial grass doesn’t need to be a chore. With these easy steps, you’ll ensure a clean and safe environment for your companions to enjoy!

The Pros and Cons of Artificial Grass for Pets

Now that you know everything there is to know about artificial grass for pets, let’s take a look at the perks and drawbacks: 

Pros:

• No mud or dirt in your home
• Fewer pests and insects
• No need for nasty fertilisers or pesticides
• Low maintenance compared to real grass
• Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• Higher upfront cost compared to real grass
• Can absorb heat on hot days
• Needs regular cleaning to stay hygienic
• Some pets may take time to adjust to the new surface

Key Takeaways

• Artificial grass is a great option for pets due to its durability and low-maintenance nature.
• Choose a pet-friendly artificial grass that aids in draining and reducing odours.
• Artificial grass is safe for pets with no health risks involved.
• Maintain your pets’ artificial grass regularly to provide a clean and safe environment.

Looking for a quality, pet-safe lawn solution in the Sydney area? Contact us now for a quote.

FAQs 

Does artificial grass get too hot for pets? 

Look for brands that incorporate technologies to reduce heat absorption. Although artificial grass can become hot in direct sunlight, it typically doesn’t reach dangerous levels. Also, a simple solution like setting up a shade or watering your artificial lawn occasionally can keep it cool and comfortable for your pets.

Additionally, consider using grass for dogs, which is specifically designed to minimise heat absorption, reduce urine absorption and odours, and provide a durable and pet-friendly outdoor space for dogs.

Can pets dig up the artificial grass? 

In general, artificial grass is durable. Your burrowing buddy will typically find it more challenging to dig up artificial turf than natural grass. Plus, well-installed artificial grass is usually secured and often has a pet premium infill, discouraging the digging habit. 

Will pets be able to tell and accept the difference? 

Most pets quickly get accustomed to synthetic turf and find it just as enjoyable as real grass. The texture is designed to feel natural and is easier on their paws compared to gravel or paved areas. 

These aspects all contribute to ensuring pet security. However, it’s always best to consult with the manufacturer or your vendor to discuss any specific concerns. At Trinity, we’ll always provide you with all the information you need about the product before we install it.