In the spirit of celebrating our planet here are some tips on how to reduce your dog and cat's carbon paw print. Yes, our pets do contribute too. Just think about all the plastic baggies we use up every week. Multiply that number by 56.
Tip #1 - Switch over to biodegradable dog waste bags. Reality is that although it may seem that you're reusing those plastic bags from your super market, your dog's poop is staying in that plastic bag, forever. Instead, reuse the plastic super market bags next time you go shopping, return them to recycling centers, or better yet purchase a nice tote bag or a fabric reusable bag for your shopping.
Tip #2 - Switch your kitty litter to to something more eco-friendly like Swheat Scoop, which is clay and chemical free. Plus, you can flush it and not worry if kitty inhales or ingest some of it.
Tip #3 - Spay, Neuter, and Adopt. As someone whose volunteered at the city open admission shelter I can tell you we don't need any more homeless pets. Don't purchase from stores that sell pets, you're just keeping them in business.
Tip #4 - Use stainless steel or ceramic bowls instead of plastic. According to author of Natural Diets for Dogs and Cats, Kymythy Schultz, plastic bowls tend to give off harmful fumes. Also, stainless steel bowls are so much easier to clean, disinfect, and your dog won't chew on it so easily.
Tip #5 - Purchase food, toys, and other pet supplies that are made from recycled or organic materials. Such as hemp collars, organic dog food and treats. Organic food and treats are much healthier for your pets and although they may be pricier, in the long term you save money because you get a healthier pet.
Tip #6 - Use natural or organic household cleaners. I know it's helped Gizmo's allergies tremendously, so its really a win-win situation.
Tip #7 - Donate to a rescue group or city shelter. Has your pup outgrown his crate, sweater, bed, or collar? A lot of these organizations have wish lists which includes a need for crates, blankets, beds, etc.
Tip #8 - Make your own dog and cat toys. Nemo loves nothing more than a cardboard box...even if its a shoebox! I always leave the delivery boxes around for him and throw them out once he's worn them out. Harley's favorite rope toy is made out of Bradley's old pair of socks cut up into strips then braided and knotted at both ends. Best of all, I was able to make 2 out of one pair! You can make a bed out of old blankets and pillows. Trust me your pets won't know the difference and will be happy campers.
Tip #9 - Put all those empty plastic water bottles to use. There's a toy called bottle buddies that I purchased for Harley and its basically a sturdy plastic bottle cover. Its made completely out of recycled materials and offers a nice way to reuse your plastic water bottle...don't forget to recycle once its time to place a new one in :). I got mine at www.cleanrun.com
Tip #10 - Respect nature and don't let your dog or cat killing wildlife unnecessarily.
Remember, everything is connected. We are all connected. Let's take care of this planet during our stay and preserve it for future generations. Take a moment to think on how you're helping preserve our planet. Feel free to share your thoughts.
Happy Earth Day!
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