The Plants for Paws herb range was created for gardeners who share their homes with pets. This collection focuses on pet-safe herbs in South Africa that support natural wellness for both animals and people, helping pet owners grow gardens that are as safe as they are beautiful.

Many popular ornamental plants can be harmful if pets chew on them. The Plants for Paws range highlights herbs that are considered non-toxic to cats and dogs, making them ideal choices for homes where curious paws explore the garden.

Eckards in Gauteng, have selected a group of herbs that grow well in the climate of South Africa while supporting the idea that pets, plants and people can live happily together. Look for the Paw-Approved symbol on plants in the Plants for Paws range.

 

Herbs for Natural Pet Wellness

One of the reasons the Plants for Paws range focuses on herbs is that many familiar culinary herbs have long been associated with gentle, natural wellness benefits. Grown fresh and used in moderation, they can be a simple way to add a little extra goodness to your pet’s world.

Digestion Helpers
Some herbs are traditionally used to help support comfortable digestion.
• Dill
• Basil

Fresh Breath and Oral Freshness
A few well-known herbs are also valued for helping to keep breath fresher.
• Parsley
• Mint

Immune and General Wellness
These herbs have long been linked with supporting overall wellbeing.
• Thyme
• Rosemary

 

 

Paw-Approved Herbs

Let’s take a closer look at a few of the herbs in the Plants for Paws range and why they are such useful additions to a pet-friendly garden.

Basil – Safe for dogs and cats
Benefits
• Mild anti-inflammatory properties
• May help support digestion
• Naturally rich in antioxidants
Basil is one of the easiest herbs to grow in sunny South African gardens and does particularly well in containers or mixed herb beds where it can be picked fresh.

Parsley – Safe in small amounts for dogs
Benefits
• Natural breath freshener
• Traditionally associated with kidney support
• Rich in vitamins A, C and K
Parsley grows happily in herb pots, kitchen gardens, or tucked between other herbs where it can be harvested regularly.

Rosemary – Safe for dogs and cats in small quantities
Benefits
• Supports healthy circulation
• Mild antioxidant properties
• Traditionally linked to coat health
Rosemary thrives in the dry, sunny conditions common in many Gauteng gardens and makes a hardy, fragrant addition to herb beds and containers.
Dill – Safe for dogs

Benefits
• Supports digestion
• May help ease stomach discomfort
Dill grows quickly in herb gardens and vegetable beds and is easy to harvest fresh while young and tender.
Thyme – Safe for dogs and cats
Benefits
• Natural antimicrobial properties
• Traditionally associated with respiratory support
• Linked to general immune health
Thyme is a hardy, low-growing herb that works beautifully in pots, herb gardens, and along sunny borders.

 

 

Creating a Pet-Friendly Herb Garden

The Plants for Paws herb range makes it easier to create a garden that works for the whole family.
A few simple tips can help:

• Grow herbs in pots or raised beds for easy care
• Choose non-toxic plants where pets explore
• Give pets their own comfortable space in the garden

With thoughtful plant choices, you can create a garden that provides fresh herbs, natural beauty, and a safe space for pets.

Discover the Plants for Paws Range

The Plants for Paws herb collection is designed to help gardeners choose pet-friendly herbs that support natural wellness for both animals and people. Look for the Paw-Approved symbol on herbs in the Plants for Paws range when visiting our garden centre in Gauteng.

Because with Plants for Paws, your garden can be healthy for paws and people alike.

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Pet-Safe Herbs

What herbs are safe for dogs and cats in South Africa?
Several common culinary herbs are considered non-toxic to dogs and cats when eaten in small amounts. Some of the most popular pet-safe herbs in South African gardens include:

• Basil
• Rosemary
• Thyme
• Dill
• Parsley (small amounts for dogs)

 

Can pets eat herbs from the garden?

• Many herbs are safe for pets in small quantities, but they should not replace a normal diet. Pets may nibble herbs occasionally, but herbs should be considered supplemental rather than a primary food source.
• If your pet consumes large amounts of any plant, it is always best to consult a veterinarian.
• The Plants for Paws range focuses on herbs that are widely recognised as non-toxic to dogs and cats, making them safer choices for gardens with curious pets.

 

What herbs are good for a dog's digestion?

Some herbs traditionally associated with digestive support include:

• Dill
• Basil
• Parsley (in small amounts)

 

Are herb gardens safe for pets?

Yes, herb gardens can be very safe for pets when you choose non-toxic herbs. Many culinary herbs are considered pet-friendly and can be grown in pots, raised beds, or kitchen gardens.
Using the Plants for Paws herb range makes it easier to identify plants suitable for homes with dogs and cats.

 

What herbs grow well in Gauteng gardens?
The climate in Gauteng is ideal for many Mediterranean and culinary herbs.
Herbs that grow particularly well include:

• Basil
• Rosemary

• Thyme
• Dill
• Mint

These herbs thrive in sunny conditions and well-drained soil, making them perfect for patios, balconies, and garden beds in South Africa.

 

Where can I buy pet-safe herbs in Gauteng?

Pet-friendly herbs from the Plants for Paws® range are available at our garden centre in Gauteng.
Look for the Paw-Approved symbol to identify herbs that are considered safe choices for homes with cats and dogs.