Question
In Jan. 07 my kids bought me a puppy (I've been a widow for years) because I have MS and they thought I needed a companion. Well, my golden doodle grow very fast and all her playful running around has killed all my grass and now I have a mud yard and really dirty paws. I am going to try to get some straw to lay around the yard to keep down the mud but do you have any ideas of what I can do to fix my yard? I have a large yard and was thinking about using river stone in the whole yard. Please help!!

Bobbi

Answer
Ms. McEvoy:

Unfortunately, young dogs and grass are not a good match.  They need plenty of space to avoid damaging lawns.  The river rock idea is a good one.  I would ask a vet what effect they would have on the dog's nails.  A soil cloth underneath a thick cover will delay weed growth through the rock.

Consider artifical turf.  Professionally installed, it will last a long time, provide a clean surface, and require some minor maintenance.  Mostly, keeping it clean and making sure the joints stay together.  If installed with proper drainage underneath and surface, it should relieve any damp and dirty paws.

Best wishes.