Gardeners urged to leave bowl of dog food in garden this July and August

Gardening enthusiasts are being encouraged to place a bowl of dog food in their outdoor spaces this summer for a crucial purpose. Our back gardens can serve as sanctuaries for wildlife and the natural environment, though sometimes nature requires a bit of assistance.

This summer, green-fingered Britons are being called upon to leave a dish of dog or cat food in their gardens to support threatened hedgehogs through the challenging summer period and help them build up reserves for winter. Hedgehogs represent a crucial component of British fauna, yet their populations face severe decline due to a combination of habitat destruction, climate change, and modern garden designs featuring barriers and boundaries that restrict their movement whilst foraging.

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Beyond creating small openings or gaps in fencing to allow passage, gardeners are being encouraged to provide sustenance for these creatures throughout the summer months, reports the Express.

Cat or dog food can be utilised, though in areas with numerous wandering felines (as many neighbourhoods experience), dog food might prove more suitable to avoid simply nourishing local cats instead.

Garden owners are advised to place the food in a shallow container within a protected corner of their outdoor space around dusk. You can also pop water bowls down too to maximise your help.

Wildlife rescue organisation St Tiggywinkles advises: "To help hedgehogs build up their fat reserves in time for winter, please put out a shallow dish of water and some meaty flavoured tinned cat or dog food in the evenings."

Hedgehog Street advises: "Hedgehogs will relish any combination of meat-based wet dog or cat foods, or dry cat/kitten food.

"Just remember, they will be getting most of their food from insects and worms in the wild, and this food is only supplementary. Specially made hedgehog food is also widely available. Those resembling pet food with a high meat content are most suitable.

"Place in a shallow dish and put in a sheltered area of your garden, or a feeding station (see below), around sunset. Splitting food over several sites may reduce aggression at food bowls. Don't forget to offer water bowls too"