If you have a garden, you know how lovely it can be to sit outside and enjoy the spring sunshine in it. For those with pets, it's understandable to want your dog or cat to be able to enjoy the garden just as much, which is why it's important to make sure it's a safe space for them.

One common mistake people make is not planting the right things, and inadvertently putting their animals in danger. Almost everyone knows that lilies are poisonous to animals, but there are a number of other popular spring plants that can be dangerous for them too. However, there are just as many beautiful alternatives you can plant that will give you a beautiful glowering garden to enjoy safely with your pets.

Dr Emily Attlee, conservation scientist and co-founder of Seedball, has shared her top plant picks for creating a garden that supports wildlife while keeping pets safe.

Daffodils

The first switch she recommends all animal lovers make is to ditch the daffodils.

She said: "Daffodils are toxic to both cats and dogs if eaten. They contain lycorine, which can cause digestive upset, and other parts of the plant may irritate the mouth, throat, and skin. The bulbs are particularly dangerous, so if your pet tends to nibble on plants or dig up the flower garden, it's best to avoid daffodils altogether in gardens where pets are prone to digging or chewing."

Instead, you can plant cowslip. These beautiful yellow blooms are a common sight in the English countryside. The flowers have a sweet apricot scent, and they won't do any damage to your beloved pets.

Foxgloves

These trumpet shaped flowers are beautiful but they are highly toxic to animals and even people. This is because they contain cardiac glycosides - which can be fatal if ingested as it interferes with the heart muscle.

Instead, plant red campion. This beautiful perennial flower blooms from late-spring to late summer and produces gorgeous red flowers - plus it's non-toxic.

Oxeye daisies

While these charming, fast growing wildflowers are fabulous for pollinators they can cause stomach issues in animals, so are best avoided in a pet friendly garden.

Instead, you can plant cornflowers - they're just as beautiful with their bright vibrant blue blooms and are great pollinators too.They pose no risk to pets, and will make your garden look beautiful.