Wondering what you can do to live a greener life with your pet?
Pets have a carbon footprint too so here are a few tips to help make your pet a little greener.
Purchase all natural, organic pet foods:
Serve your pets healthy, organic pet foods that have been minimally processed, are made without added hormones or antibiotics and contain no by-products, artificial preservatives, colors or flavors.
Buy all natural pet grooming products:
All natural shampoos, soap and sprays are better for the environment and your pet's fur and skin. There are a wide variety available to keep your pet's skin healthy and smelling great.
Purchase eco-friendly pet accessories:
Nowadays, almost every item your pet needs is available in a more eco-friendly option. From toys made from organic and recycled fibers, to collars made from hemp or recycled plastic and dog beds made from recycled plastic bottles, there are many earth friendly products available. They are not only better for the earth but also more comfortable for your pet too.
Be green when disposing pet waste: Most pet waste ends up in landfills or or in sewers where it can later pollute our waterways. Compost your pet's waste, use 100% biodegradable, earth-friendly waste bags when walking your dog and if you're a cat owner purchase kitty litter made from recycled materials such as newspaper. Also, if your pet has an accident inside the house be sure to use natural cleaning products without any toxic chemicals for clean up.
Serve your pets homemade treats:
There are plenty of great recipes online for homemade pet treats. If you have kids let them help you make the treats too. It will be fun for them and a good way to demonstrate eco-friendly living. Before making your own pet treats be sure to talk to you vet about appropriate ingredients and avoid anything that may be bad for your pet's digestion or cause allergies.
Do your part to control the pet population:
It is estimated that between 6 and 8 million pets enter shelters each year and 3 - 4 million of them are euthanized every year. So if you're planning to become a pet owner, adopt from a shelter. If you're already a pet owner, spay or neuter your pet. Additionally, when you spay or neuter your pet you're helping to improve their health by decreasing the risk of some forms of cancer and prostate disease.
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