Sandbox? Backyard fun?

[Acadia]

I am going to limit Cadie's backyard access, at least for awhile, and wondering about the sandbox idea to give her a place to dig etc...for those of you who have this for your dogs, did you actually build a frame, or dig out some dirt? What kind of place did you buy sand? Is it like beach sand? Any other fun ideas for being outside. Cadie loves being out, and loves to chew.

These probably sound like "duh" questions!

 

[jacqueline]

so glad you asked these questions , as now we only have a back yard , i really need some ideas for my three ,
jacqui,x

 

[wrknnwf]

I would build a simple frame, so that the area is clearly defined for her and so that weeds won't wander in the edges. Use playground sand, not builders or beach. You can get it at most hardware or landscape stores. They will probably deliver it in bulk or you can get it in small bags. It will take a lot of sand so do all your math first. They can help you decide how deep and how much sand you need to complete the job. Sand is usually sold in cubic feet or yards.

 

[YorkvilleNewfie]

We got untreated, dye-free sand at Home Depot. Much more expensive than the "play sand" they offer (which is dyed BTW; makes no sense). We had a custom sandbox built, but I'm sure a simple frame with planks with an inch or so between them lining the bottom would be fine, but don't forget to also set it on too off weed fabric to keep out grass and weeds. Make it deep and get toys for burying in it. Will be a worthwhile investment!

 

[DAWNMERIE]

Only thing I'd worry about is a cover, cat's and other animals tend to think it's a big litter box....just something to keep in mind

 

[lacey9875]

Only thing I'd worry about is a cover, cat's and other animals tend to think it's a big litter box....just something to keep in mind

This. Also, Maggie drags enough debris into the house, I couldn't handle sand.

 

[ElvisTheNewf]

Yea, there'd be no way I'd keep sand out of my house! And is this to be used during her recovery? Or once she's all healed?

I'm just not sure a sandbox during recovery is a good idea. She may love it and I understand you want to keep her busy and happy, but she'll be moving around and digging, and due to the unequal weight distribution she'd have when digging, it may put more stress on her back legs. Walking in sand is a lot different than walking on grass or pavement, so that may affect her healing as well.

Plus if you make it high at all she'll be stepping in and over it multiple times. We think Elvis may have started to tear his ligament while jumping in and out of his kiddie pool, so that's something to think about.

 

[YorkvilleNewfie]

Oh. For rcovery? No. Maybe later when she's further along in her healing, but not now.