It’s that time of year again for everyone to come together to help Mother Nature; that’s right, it’s Earth Day! This day was designed to inspire awareness and appreciation for the Earth’s environment. I’m not sure what first comes to your mind when you think about Earth Day, but from my past experiences I tend to focus on planting trees and picking up garbage in my local community. Although this is exactly what should be done on this occasion, we need to expand our thinking to include the little creatures near and dear to us. Going green isn’t just for people. Pets as well as pet owners can help protect the environment we all share.
It is estimated that every cat causes half a ton, and each dog causes 1.75 tons of greenhouse emissions every year. When I was researching simple ways for you to help resolve this issue, I came across a cool article called “Ask the Vet: Your pets can go green, too” by Dr. Ray Cahill that highlights nine simple ways for you to reduce your pet’s carbon pawprint.
1. Try to purchase pet foods that come in easily recycled containers.
2. If you purchase pet foods that are manufactured closer to where you live, you will be selecting products that required less fossil fuel for transport.
3. When possible, choose pet foods that use organic ingredients since such ingredients are produced without drugs, hormones or pesticides.
4. Do not use plastic bags to scoop up after your pet. Use more environmentally friendly options like a paper bag or a biodegradable container.
5. Consider purchasing pet toys and accessories that are made from non-plastic natural materials or recycled products.
6. Use eco-friendly cat litter and pan liners.
7. When cleaning up after your pet, avoid harsh chemicals and use natural, biodegradable cleaners.
8. Consider composting your pet’s waste. You can create your own system or use an already existing pet waste compost unit.
9. Finally, when you’re looking for a new pet, consider adopting from a shelter or a breed-specific rescue organization.
Let Earth Day be your excuse to start following some of these easy rules, but really try to make these changes a habit. I think you’ll find it’s amazing how a few simple adjustments to minimize your pet’s impact on the environment can really add to the greater good. And if you are looking to fill your shopping cart with some cool green pet gear, hop on over to Izzit’s Pets section.
Thank you Salvatore Vuono for the Earth Photo.
