In honor of St. Patty’s Day yesterday, I looked at some ways to make your home a little more “green” — environmentally friendly — and how it can benefit your health. Now let’s look at a few ways to go green with your four-legged friends!
- Deal with pet waste naturally. Try flushable bags for picking up after your dogs on walks — flushing is best because it keeps bags and pet waste out of landfills and prevents soil and water contamination that comes with leaving doggy doo where it falls. If you don’t want to carry the waste to the toilet, look for biodegradable bags. You can also find biodegradable litter pan liners!
- Pick biodegradable litter for kitty. Wheat or corn-based litter are two options. You can also find litters that are made from recycled materials; at the cats only boarding facility, we use low-dust litter made from recycled newspaper.
- Look for toys made from recycled plastic. Some dogs are just as happy playing with an empty water or soda bottle as they are with a brand new toy!
- Look for beds made from recycled material.
- Use enzyme-based cleaners for pet messes, rather than chemical-based cleaners.
- Choosing organic pet foods helps keep the world a little greener — the ingredients were grown without using pesticides.
- Protect local wildlife from your pets. For example, domestic cats can kill hundreds of birds annually — which messes with insect control in your area. If you want your kitties to have some outside time, try a cat run or other enclosed area; your pet will get fresh air without threatening local wildlife. Keep your dogs in a securely fenced yard so they can’t wander off on a hunt.
- Share what your pets don’t use. Your local shelters will be happy to take a donation of food, treats, toys, and beds if your pets aren’t using them.