why artificial turf
is a popular choice
for pet spaces
OCT 15 - JAN 15, 2024
12
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PETJUNCTION411.COM
n Florida, where outdoor spaces are
an essential part of everyday life, more
homeowners and businesses are turn-
ing to artificial turf for their pet areas.
Its durability, easy maintenance, and
ability to withstand the unique chal-
lenges of Florida’s climate make it an
increasingly popular option. But is it the
right choice for your pet space? Let’s
take a look at the benefits and what
you should consider before installing
artificial turf.
THE BENEFITS OF ARTIFICIAL TURF
FOR PET AREAS
Low Maintenance
Artificial turf requires far less mainte-
nance than natural grass. You won’t
need to worry about mowing, watering,
or applying fertilizers and pesticides,
making it a time-saving option for busy
pet owners.
Durability
Designed to handle rough play and
heavy trafÏc, artificial turf stands up to
digging and wear-and-tear from pets.
It’s perfect for dogs that like to run,
jump, and roll around without damag-
ing the surface.
Excellent Drainage
One of the top features of artificial turf
for pet spaces is its superior drainage.
Florida’s frequent rain and humidity can
turn natural grass into a muddy mess,
but turf’s drainage system prevents
puddles, keeping the area clean and
dry—even after a downpour.
by shelly allen
Pest Control
With no soil, artificial turf doesn’t attract
pests like fleas, ticks, or ants. This can
help reduce the risk of pests bothering
your pets or invading your home, a ma-
jor advantage for pet owners in Florida.
Always Green
No more worrying about brown patches
or dead spots from pet urine. Artificial
turf stays green and lush all year, giving
your outdoor space a consistently beau-
tiful appearance.
WHAT TO BE AWARE OF BEFORE
INSTALLING ARTIFICIAL TURF IN
FLORIDA
Heat Retention
Artificial turf can get hot, especially in
Florida’s intense sun. While newer turf
models, like K9 Grass by ForeverLawn,
are designed with cooling technology,
it’s important to consider providing
shade or adding pet-friendly cooling
stations, so your pets aren’t uncomfort-
able during the hottest parts of the day.
Odor Control
Turf doesn’t absorb liquids like natural
grass, so you’ll need to rinse it regular-
ly to prevent the buildup of pet urine
odors. Many artificial turfs come with
antimicrobial coatings or can be treated
with deodorizers to help minimize
smell, but it’s essential to stay on top of
cleaning.
Initial Installation Costs
Artificial turf comes with a higher
upfront cost compared to natural
grass, but it’s important to view it as a
long-term investment. Over time, the
reduced costs of water, lawn care, and
pest control often make up for the initial
expense.
Maintenance Routine
While artificial turf is low maintenance,
it’s not maintenance-free. Regular rins-
ing and occasional brushing are neces-
sary to keep it looking its best. You may
also want to hire a professional service
for deep cleaning once or twice a year.
Synthetic Appearance
Even though artificial turf has come a
long way in terms of its natural look
and feel, it’s still not quite the same as
real grass. Some pet owners and busi-
nesses prefer the manicured, synthetic
look, but it’s worth considering whether
you’ll miss the feel of natural grass
underfoot.
Conclusion: Is Artificial Turf Right
for Your Pet Space?
Artificial turf offers a range of benefits,
particularly for pet owners in Florida. Its
durability, low maintenance, and ability
to stay green through rain and shine
make it an attractive option. However,
it’s important to be aware of the heat
factor, initial costs, and the cleaning
routine before you commit.
For many Floridians, the long-term
savings and convenience of artificial turf
outweigh the cons, making it a smart
choice for pet-friendly outdoor spaces.
K9 Grass by Foreverlawn offers a fantastic
flow through nitting that keeps the turf cool
and well drained! Find their ad on page 19.
Already have turf installed? Get your turf
smelling fantastic again with Turf Hero Pet
Odor Eliminator. Find it on page 35.