Just like our loved ones, our pets deserve only the best. And when it comes to their “play” needs, it’s about time that you upgrade their area a.k.a. your yard to a more decent playground for them. Enter artificial turf. Yes, it might sound too much but trust me, when you have it installed already and you constantly play on it, I think you’ll be thankful that you read this piece.
On a more serious note, installing artificial turf in your yard is a daunting decision with so many factors to consider-cost, maintenance, appearance, durability, environmental impact, and “will my dog be comfortable playing on it?” question. Before you turn your back, weigh first this pros and cons why artificial turf will be good for you and your pets.
Pros
It never gets worn down- pets, especially dogs, can get a little rowdy sometimes and would occasionally eat parts of your yard. But with synthetic grass, they will just ignore it because its plastic. Plus, weather-speaking, synthetic turf does not get patchy in summer or muddy in winter. No matter how you see it, synthetic turf is there to stay in your yard no matter what.
“Luxury” for your Pet-because you want the best for your pet, you also want them to feel “luxurious” (to say the least) with the lushness of grass. With synthetic turf, they will not only feel comfortable playing on it but it will also make them feel active.
It is low Maintenance-after installing your artificial grass, there is virtually nothing that you have to do apart from playing with your pet or admiring your yard’s greenery. It does not need watering, fertilizer or even mowing.
Highly Durable-your pets can run and play to their heart’s content in a synthetic turf without a mark being left on its surface because it is made of highly durable material and it even designed to withstand pet activities.
It is long lasting-most synthetic turf, regardless of its purpose lasts up to a decade or more so you will definitely get your money’s worth.
Cons
Initial Cost may be Too High-like mentioned above, installing artificial grass just for your pets is a big decision and admittedly, it does not come cheap. The initial cost for installing artificial turf can be large sums in one go so if you are just a new couple, this is not for you… yet.
Installation Time-Just like Rome, installing synthetic turf cannot be done in just a day. Yes, it can be done but it will not be a topnotch quality. Good artificial turf is built from 5 days to two weeks rendering your yard useless and messy.
Health Hazards-and not only to your pets but to your children as well. Remember, it is made of plastic so it can get really hot on summers but it can also get slippery if it rains causing skids and falls to your family and pets.
Although it is very nice to look at, artificial turf is not for everyone. An artificial turf company in San Diego suggests homeowners that they talk it out to their family before installing it in their backyard because it can become costly and some family members may not be ready for a total transformation.
In the end, it is still up to the homeowner to make the best decision not only for their pets but for their family as well.