Got Dogs, A Vegetable Garden, And Wild Rabbits? Install A Fence Around The Garden
If you have a vegetable garden, having a dog is bad enough but add wild rabbits into the mix can lead to disaster. It is a dog's instinct to chase and no matter where the rabbit is in your yard, such as in the middle of your garden, the dog will do whatever it can to catch it. Before anything like this happens, you should install a fence around the garden. Even if you have a fenced-in yard, you should consider this. This is the best way to protect your garden from your dog. There are different types of fences you could choose from, two of which are listed below.
Wire Mesh
For something inexpensive, you could use wire mesh fencing material. If you choose this, make sure you anchor the mesh to sturdy posts and put it approximately three to four feet high. Your dog could not likely knock this over and this would prevent it from being able to jump the fence. If you want to keep the rabbit away also, install chicken wire in front of the mesh that has small diameter holes. Bury the fence several inches deep to prevent the dog, as well as rabbits, from digging under the fence.
When the season is over, you can easily remove the wire mesh fence and store it until next year.
Chain Link
If you do not mind spending more money you can install a chain link fence around the garden. This will give you the most protection. This can serve another purpose when the garden is gone. For example, you could use this as a play area for your dog. This is beneficial if you entertain in your backyard, as you could keep the dog away from everyone.
You can find chain link fences in different colors if you do not like the standard grey color. For example, you can choose black, brown, or green.
When purchasing a chain link fence, you will find different wire materials. For example, there are wires that are coated with zinc. This puts a protective coating on the fence so there is less maintenance. Make sure the mesh diamond diameters are small enough so a rabbit could not squeeze through.
Another type is aluminum wires, which is resistant to corrosion and is very durable. Stainless steel wires are the most expensive option, but they do stand up well to extreme temperatures and harsh weather conditions. The wires are durable and very difficult to break.
Contact a fencing company in your area, like A & R Rent-A-Fence, to learn about more fencing options you have to protect your garden. They can help you choose what would work best for you.