Inexpensive lawn replacement?
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I am heavily into dog rescue and our lawn shows it. Not only that, but our lawn struggled through California's recent drought. Does anyone out there have an easy and inexpensive idea for a lawn replacement that not only looks good but will withstand a parade of dogs running on it?
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Go with a tumbled pea gravel a couple inches thick. The tumbling takes the sharp edges off so it does not hurt their paws. I have 6 dogs in my tiny yard daily, so I understand completely. I still have a decent lawn but it does take some work. Many people in my area have gone to artificial turf (expensive), or xeriscaping. Hope this gives you a few options to consider.
I no longer do rescue, but, like you, I was heavily involved and lost all greenery in the process. I would just lay pine needles, they held up for 6 months and were easy to treat with one of the natural clove sprays to prevent fleas. Looks good once you spread and water them down, keeps their feet from getting super dirty, saving time mopping your floors and you don't get that 'pee smell' build up. I did have some needles brought in prior to them matting down, but it was no big deal. Bless you for helping those who cannot help themselves.
I have 4 medium sized very active dogs. They have a circle that they always run plus bare trails. I have tried pea gravel, crushed stone and pine needles. My dogs have thrown all off paths. It all ended up banked like raceways along sides. I laid flagstone around half of circle. That worked, but I had to have major surgery and couldn't finish circle. Also it was expensive. I am tired of mud and dust too. I wish I had a better answer than flagstone or brick pavers.
Check your city codes, but if you can use it, rye grass grows fast, looks pretty, can be planted by hand spreading, and can be replanted often. But some places don't allow it because it is not a permanent grass, does not have deep roots, doesn't help conserve water because it is a thirsty grass and does not create a root system that would help hold water in the soil. If you can give your dogs long walks and runs, they might not run the tracks in your yard, but I doubt it. Dogs need exercise and entertainment, and your house is their house. Thanks for being a rescuer, but don't take on more than you can handle, for your sake and the dogs'. Best wishes 😇