How do I keep animals away?  

I heard that most animals don't like spicy things so you could try using pepper and such around the plants to keep them away. Some people swear on using some sort of Irish Spring Soap but that might be an American-only brand. Not sure where you are located. 

Use netting. You can make small blocked-off areas to keep deer from getting close. My grandfather had a small garden that would always get attacked by deer and bunnies until he put a fence around it. 

Where were you growing? Sometimes keeping the plants closer to your home is all it takes. If you have a dog, you can encourage him to pee around the area. This will keep some animals away as well.

If you can afford to make one, just do a mesh-style greenhouse. You just need wood and netting and you make it so you keep animals out while still allowing pollinators in. 

Some places will sell coyote urine to keep deer away. You will have to check garden stores for that. Or specialty farming stores. My uncle uses the stuff and swears by it.