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Going Green with Pets
According to 2008 Gallup environmental poll environment poll, 55% of Americans have made minor
changes in their lives and 28% have made major changes to live a more eco-conscious lifestyle.
Your entire family, including your pet, can help preserve the environment. Reduce your pet's
carbon foot print by taking measure to conserve and recycle materials. Even pets can help save
our planet!
1. Pick up the Poop
All dog owners should know the scoop on poop. According to the LIPA USA, 3.6 billion pounds of dog waste is produced in the United States each year. Furthermore, plastics are the fourth highest generated wasted in the US. If you are going to pick up poop, use earth-friendly waste bags, not plastic bags. Purchase bags that are made of a combination of renewable products, such as corn, that meet the highest standards for biodegradability. Bags should decompose naturally when exposed to micro-organisms in the Earth’s soil, not inhibit the decomposition process with chemical additives. For cat owners, buy litter made of corn, wheat or pine; it is generally 100% natural, non-toxic and can usually be flushed away.
2. Eat Well and Healthy
As the organic eating lifestyle grows more popular, people have begun to feed their pets organic food too. Organic pet foods are free of pesticides and harmful chemicals. Dog and cat owners are hoping that feeding organic will lead to healthier pets. The cost of organic pet food can be expensive. Be sure to visit company websites for cost saving coupons, promotions and frequent buying programs
3. Stop Wasting Water
Put away the pet drinking fountains and you’ll save energy and money. Instead, use a filtered pitcher for clean water and keep it cool in the refrigerator. To quench your pet's thirst, don't waste water by filling the bowl to brim but by filling the bowl half full. A stainless steel bowl, available at any discount kitchen supply store, can also keep water colder, longer. Additionally, stainless steel bowls do not have to be replaced as frequently as plastic or break as easily as ceramic. Stainless bowls are also easy to clean.
4. Eco-Friendly Play
Many pet owners are concerned about toxic substances used in pet products. Give your dog and cat pet toys that are free of pesticides and other toxic chemicals. In doing so, our pets can remain healthy and our planet, pollutant-free.
5. A More Natural Slumber
If you are an eco-conscious consumer, consider purchasing an organic bed for your dog or cat. Dogs sleep up to 18 hours a day and cats can sleep for up to 20. Consider your pet's daily exposure to the chemicals released from foams, polyfill, and other synthetic materials. Promote a healthy lifestyle for you and your dog by choosing a bed that is made of organic or recycled materials that are environmentally friendly and durable.
6. Groom Naturally
Purchase grooming products with the health of your beloved pet in mind. Look for pet care products that are non-toxic, 100% natural, entirely bio-degradable, free of phosphates and enzymes, and are animal cruelty-free.
7. Accessorize in Green
Green fashion is here to stay. Buy collars, harnesses, and leashes made of organic fibers or sustainable fabrics like those made from bamboo, hemp and cork. Earth-friendly fashions encompass fashion, form and function.
8. Clean with Green
According to Nutrition Business Journal , sales of green cleaning products are up 35%. Our pets walk bare-foot on the floors we clean, surfaces we disinfect, and rub their bodies on the coffee table and chairs we sanitize. These are all normal things to do but end up increasing our pets’ likelihood of suffering from an allergic reactions, nausea, vomiting and other long term effects such as kidney, liver, heart damage, and cancer. Switching to green, natural, non-toxic products can keep your home clean and your pet healthy.
9. Recycle
Instead of purchasing wee-wee pads or a portable potty area for your puppy or dog, you can recycle your daily newspaper. By placing newspaper on a catering tray (easily purchased at a discount kitchen supply store), you have created an affordable, portable potty for your dog. The trays are inexpensive and easy to clean and the paper is free and easy to dispose of. Moreover, old dogs with arthritis appreciate not having to step up to relieve themselves.
10. Volunteer
Due to ravaged finances, family pets are landing in shelters in large numbers. If you have the time, volunteer time or donate money to help these animals.
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