Some furry friends are just born explorers. They always seem to want to be outside, even if the living room is nice and the food bowl is full. If you’ve got a cat or dog that’s always pawing at the door or staring longingly out the window, you’re not alone. A lot of pet owners have trouble finding the right mix between letting their animals roam and keeping them safe. And let’s be honest—outdoor environments can be risky.
There are many dangers our pet friends can face when they’re outside alone, such as cars, animals, and bad weather. That’s why creating a safe and fun backyard is so important, especially for pets like Ren, the determined gray cat in Ren’s Journey Home by Laurie Kubal Becvar. Ren’s story makes us think about how strong the bond between people and animals can be and how important it is to keep them safe. Today, we’re going to talk about some of the best and pet-friendly ways to make an outdoor place that is safe and fun for pets who are always trying to go outside or come inside.
Pets and the Great Outdoors
Before we dive into the how-to, it’s worth asking: why do some pets have that strong outdoor drive?
For many, it comes naturally. Cats are naturally hunters, even when they live in homes. They like to hide, climb, and look around. Dogs like to sniff everything, keep an eye on their area, or just run around in the open.
But unstructured outdoor access can lead to:
- Accidents or injuries (from vehicles or falls)
- Encounters with aggressive animals
- Getting lost or running away
- Exposure to toxins like pesticides or antifreeze
That’s why a secure outdoor environment gives pets what they want—freedom—without exposing them to unnecessary danger.
Step 1: Create a Safe and Fun Starting Spot
Choose an easy-to-see spot in your yard or outdoor landscape to begin. It could be:
- A fenced-in backyard
- A sectioned-off patio or balcony
- A portion of the garden
Make sure you can see the area from inside the house, especially if you’re going to let your pet run around while you’re not there. Consider using pet-safe turf instead of grass to reduce mess and make clean-up easier.
Step 2: Secure the Boundaries
This part is the most important. Pets who are determined to escape can be very creative, especially cats. Use safe ground cover materials like mulch, rubber, or pet-friendly turf to make walking comfortable for paws.
For Dogs:
If possible, make the fence at least 4 to 6 feet high. This will depend on how big and quick your dog is.
Dig-proof barriers, such as underground chicken wire or concrete edges at the base of the fence, are something to think about. There shouldn’t be any holes between the gates that make it easy to get through.
For cats:
Try a catio (an enclosed patio space specifically for cats) or a mesh-covered outdoor tunnel.
Use overhang fencing that angles inward to prevent climbing.
If possible, create an enclosed area using pet-safe netting over the top to keep birds of prey and other threats out.
Step 3: Add Pet-Safe Shelter and Shade
Pets that live outside need to be able to go inside if the weather changes quickly. Even if your furry companion is only outside for short stretches, they still need to stay comfortable.
Include:
- A small pet house or insulated shelter that stays dry and warm
- Shade from a tree, canopy, or tarp for hot summer days
- A water fountain that always has cool, clean water
It’s easier for pets to get thirsty or hot than we think, especially when they’re playing or exploring.
Step 4: Make It Fun and Stimulating
A pet that is bored will get into trouble. Once your space is safe, add agility-friendly features to keep them engaged and moving.
Ideas include:
- Climbing platforms or perches for cats
- A sandbox or digging area for dogs that love to dig
- Hanging toys or rotating scent trails (like hiding treats or catnip)
- A pet-safe garden with non-toxic plants they can sniff and explore
Add cozy spots where your pet can lounge in the sun or nap under a tree.
Step 5: Supervise at First
Even the safest-looking outdoor space should be introduced with supervision. Observe how your pet uses the space:
- Does it look like they want to dig under or climb over something?
- Do they seem anxious or confident?
- Are there particular sounds or sights that startle them?
Change your setup based on these findings. Some cats will eventually be able to enjoy their outdoor areas on their own, while others may still need to be watched every once in a while.
Step 6: Use Tech for Extra Peace of Mind
Technology can offer an extra layer of safety, especially for pets with a history of wandering.
- Put in pet cams or motion-detecting cameras to keep an eye on them.
- If your pet does get away, use a GPS collar to find them.
- Set up a smart pet door that will only open when their collar or microchip readers detect it.
For peace of mind when you’re not right there, these tools are especially helpful.
Step 7: Know Your Pet’s Limits
If your pet shows signs of high anxiety when outdoors or continues to escape, it might be better to focus on indoor enrichment or supervised outings on a leash or harness.
Still, a lot of pets do better with planned time outside, and finding the right place can really improve their health and happiness.
Real Stories, Real Bonds
Reading Laurie Kubal Becvar’s “Ren’s Journey Home” really makes this subject matter. In the book, Ren leaves her new home to make the almost impossible trip back to be with Laura because she really wants to be with her. Her trip isn’t just about where she’s going; it’s also about love, memories, and the strong bond between a person and their animal companion.
Creating a safe outdoor space for pets who always want back in is more than a convenience—it’s a way of saying: “You belong here, and I’ll do what it takes to keep you safe.”
Inspired by Loyalty, Love, and One Determined Cat
When people and pets love each other that much, a house feels like a home. If the story of creating a safe space for your pet speaks to your heart, you’ll want to explore ‘Ren’s Journey Home‘ by Laurie Kubal Becvar.
This moving story shows how close we can be to animals and how far they’ll go to be with the ones they love. Read it today and see why Ren’s journey will stay with you long after the last page.