A garden can be a refuge for more than its people. Trace shares her reflections on caring for pets and living alongside the wildlife of Los Angeles.
Keeping pets safe
Our animals that live with us are a big part of our families. Sharing a neighborhood with wildlife means taking everyday precautions.
- Keep cats and other small pets indoors. Accompany dogs outside and keep them on a leash.
- Supervise pets even in fenced yards. Coyotes can be active during the day as well as at dusk and night.
- Feed pets indoors, secure garbage and remove fallen fruit that can attract wildlife.
- Keep a respectful distance from wild animals. Do not feed or approach them.
- Contact a permitted wildlife rehabilitator if an animal appears injured or ill.
Harmony & nature
The garden is a Certified National Wildlife Federation sanctuary. It provides water, shelter and plants for wildlife, and is poison-free and organic: a reprieve from the concrete hustle of city life.
Trace’s guiding thought is simple: animals have their own lives and a place in the ecosystem. Find ways to coexist and seek qualified guidance before using pest-control products around pets or wildlife.
Further reading & help
“Welcome, welcome little stranger, Fear no harm, and fear no danger; We are glad to see you here, For you sing “Sweet Spring is near.” Now the white snow melts away; Now the flowers blossom gay; Come dear bird and build your nest, For we love our robin best.”
Louisa May Alcott