A Reddit user got a rougher-than-expected reception when they posted a picture of their pup on a commonplace but controversial lawn setup.
With the caption "My doggo loves his new turf," the image, posted to r/sandiego, shows a charming shot of a husky on newly laid artificial turf. Before the thread was locked, the fake grass prompted some critiques from concerned users.
Some users pointed out that the artificial turf would smell terrible in the heat.
One user shared their own experience with synthetic grass: "Had the company that did ours fully refund us and rip it out after their claims of, 'won't reek of dog pee due to the underlayment,' and, 'won't get so hot you literally can't walk on it'. Both lies. Good luck."
"Just like anything else, you have to maintain it," the original poster responded, claiming there are ways to clean the turf and deal with pet urine.
The problems with artificial turf don't end with the continuing need to maintain it. As an article from the University of Plymouth pointed out, laying down an artificial lawn cuts off water and air, which greatly harms the soil underneath. Organic matter can't get through to sustain the organisms in the soil that keep it healthy.
TCD Picks » Upway Spotlight
💡Upway makes it easy to find discounts of up to 60% on premium e-bike brands
Fake grass is also useless for pollinators and can get dangerously hot in the summer, as much as 60 degrees Celsius (140 degrees Fahrenheit), according to Penn State, which could easily lead to injury for the poor pup's paws.
The materials used also pose a contamination risk, as they contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS or "forever chemicals."
To avoid the heat and contamination risks without reverting to a water-intensive, high-maintenance grass lawn, you can instead upgrade to a natural lawn. A yard with native plants is better for pollinators, the soil, and your wallet.
Other comments highlighted the numerous issues with the turf.
TCD Picks » Stasher Spotlight
💡Stasher's reusable food storage options make it easy and affordable to live life with less plastic
|
What's the hardest thing about taking care of your yard? Click your choice to see results and speak your mind. |
Mowing the lawn 🏡 One warned, "[Watch] out, in summer astro turf can get too hot for dogs."
Another sarcastically added, "Yum! Plastic carpeting outdoors. Completely hostile to any parts of the ecosystem. Enjoy!"
Join our free newsletter for easy tips to save more and waste less, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Cool Picks
