Vivarium Grass

Today we thought we would cover one of the more unusual but increasingly popular uses of fake grass - for reptiles. Over the last year we have received a surprising number of enquiries from owners of snakes and lizards in search of some type of lining for their vivariums.

From what we understand, here are the reasons why fake grass works well in a vivarium:

• many reptiles like its strong green colour
  
  
• fake grass is easy to clean - unlike traditional carpeting (a popular alternative); a clean vivarium is important for the health of the reptile
  
  
• fake grass does not need replacing often - unlike newspaper (another popular alternative)
  
  
• when you do need to replace the lining, it should not be often and will not expensive as there is only a small area involved
  
  
• a quality fake grass product with a dense weave will be suitable for lining not just the vivariums floor but also the walls and back of it - areas where some reptiles like to climb and which will need to withstand their weight when climbing.

Our most popular product for use in vivariums has so far been Lifestyle® Multi Grass, a heavy duty fake grass with a 13mm pile height.

Just in case you don't believe what we're saying, here is a completely independent web page all about caring for iguanas which mentions the benefits of fake grass:
http://www.reptileexpert.co.uk/KeepingIguanasAsPets.html

A New Generation For The Older Generation

There is one very special section of our community for whom the new generation of artificial grasses offer real benefit - the elderly. Many people are today living longer and remaining independent well into their 80's and even 90's.


Spending so much time at home brings an increased importance to being able to use and enjoy a garden, yet many elderly people cannot do that.

Here are just a few of the reasons why:

1. Mowing the lawn regularly or even at all can be extremely difficult if not impossible
2. Watering the grass to maintain its condition in hot weather is just too demanding
3. Letting the dog out for exercise in bad weather brings muddy paws indoors

By installing artificial grass all the above problems are eradicated and even if there's no garden, then a small patio, yard or even balcony in an apartment block can be made more attractive and useful with artificial grass laid on it. Many residential care homes for the elderly and infirm are already installing artificial grass in their grounds; apart from lowering maintenance costs it means residents being able to use the grassed areas much more throughout the year and without risk of slipping on muddy areas after bouts of bad weather.

Having all year round green as an everyday part of life holds a very real value for the older generation in our community and the new generation of artificial grass such as the Lifestyle Grass range can offer just that.

Artificial Grass – Dogs & Pets

A common question amongst our customers is whether artificial grass is suitable for pets, especially dogs. Our answer is always the same, yes, it’s a good choice. Here are some of the benefits for dog owners and pet owners when they have artificial grass installed:

Pictured: Nelly the dog of Alston enjoying her artificial grass run.

1. No more muddy paws and mess being brought into your house.

2. No more bare or worn patches of grass. The artificial grass will not wear along your pet’s favourite paths in the garden.

3. Hygienic. Urine will wash through the artificial grass just like normal grass. Faeces will need to be scooped up and disposed of. Then just quickly hose down the artificial grass to remove any traces. If you are worried about odours and general cleanliness we can recommend disinfectant sprays to clean the artificial grass.

4. Deters digging. Dogs usually dig because of odours from the within the turf or, just as commonly, to bury things. With artificial grass the odours are minimised and even if your dog tried to dig he would find the artificial grass too strong. Think about how artificial grass is designed to withstand the wear and tear of a game of football and then you can appreciate how it will deter your dog from digging.

5. Artificial grass with a sand infill is non toxic – important when considering your dog or other pets. The artificial grass is generally anti-microbial so micro organisms and bacteria find it difficult to establish themselves. All round it is a more hygienic environment.

6. Artificial grass is generally not attractive to insects - they can’t eat it! Ticks and fleas tend to stay away.

7. Properly installed artificial grass will allow rain water to drain away quickly. This helps to ensure that your lawn is always available for your dog or other pets to play on.

In conclusion, your pets will be fine on artificial grass – they will benefit and you have less to worry about. A better lifestyle for everyone!