It seems like in another day and age that owning pets was easy. We would feed the dog the table scraps, let the fido run around the neighborhood without a collar or tracking device and use cleaners without worry as to how it was effecting those with their noses closest to the ground. Now the life of a pet owner seems to have changed dramatically and we are always getting new information as to what we can do to make things safer, healthier and better for our pets in order to have them share our lives with us for as long as possible.
Here are just a few quick ways to be a more earth friendly pet owner:
Clean the air. Open the windows and let the stale air out. Sprinkle baking soda on carpets and vacuum with a HEPA filter. Stop using chemical deodorizers and sprays and instead try natural essential oils or soy based candles.
Leave your shoes at the door. These days too many neighbors and municipalities are still using harsh pesticides and fungicides in their yards and they can easily be tracked in my dirt carried on our shoes. Any pooch or puss could lick or eat these off the floor. Opt for indoor shoes, slippers or barefoot.
Consider an organic, hemp collar. Sometimes we don't realize how something like a nylon collar around our pets neck could be harmful to the earth. Nylon production emits nitrous oxide, which may contribute to global warming.
Clean with natural products. When we use hard-core chemicals to clean our homes we feel like we are doing better for our families - but we could be creating a harmful environment for our pets. Pets that lick the floor or even take food from counters that are cleaned with chemicals can get sick.
Choose recycled and/or organic toys. Look for new products that are made from recycled rubber, soda bottles or other recyclables. If plush toys are what your pet prefers than try looking for toys made from organic fibres and dyes.
Cut down on clean up waste. We all know that pets can be messy. When cleaning up waste, use biodegradable waste bags or litter made from recycled newspaper. You can also clean up pet messes with washable rags instead of paper towels.
Buy bedding made from recycled fibres or choose a duvet to cover old beds old dog bed, or stuff a new one with blankets & clothes from around your house. More companies are becoming aware of the global conscious pet owner and have started to make their bed filling with recycled soda bottles or recycled fleece. Of course, the most selfless remedy when looking for a bed for your pooch - in my pug's opinion - is to just let them cozy up to you under your covers!
The best way to shop for our furry friends at home is to live by the same motto as we should live by ourselves: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Our pets will thank us!
February is National Pet Dental Health Month. There are so many aspects of keeping your dog healthy, but in my opinion, none is more important than brushing their teeth. The American Veterinary Dental Society (AVDS) estimates that eighty percent of dogs have periodontal disease by the age of three. A few years ago, the idea of brushing your dog's teeth was nearly unheard of. While it is gaining popularity, the majority of pet owners still do not brush their dogs' teeth on a regular basis.
Written By: