The carbon pawprint

We seem to always be concerned about reducing our carbon footprint, but what about our furry friends carbon pawprint? From their toys to their food to their gear and the resulting waste to their everyday living, they too have an impact on the environment. As we try to lessen our impact, we can also implement different practices into our everyday life to reduce their paw-print on the earth. Here are 10 ways:

• Ditch the plastic as you would for yourself. Stainless steel or ceramic is the best way to go. They are more durable, sturdy and easy to clean. Plastic can get nicks and break and this can become a breeding ground for germs.

• Reading food labels does not only apply to us. Take the time to read the ingredient list. Think about buying organic or natural foods , or better yet attempt to make your own. We know that organic is better for us, so the same applies to your pets.

• If you choose to buy your own food, look for products with minimal packaging as well as recyclable packaging. This also applies to their toys, gear, bed etc.

• Use grooming products that are made with natural and/or organic ingredients instead of chemicals that can be harmful to your pet, the planet and you. Again, you can always make your own products to clean your animal.

• Please give a hoot and pick up their poop! Use eco-friendly biodegradable bags to scoop up the poop. Leaving it to decompose outside is unsanitary and it can contaminate our soil and water supply.

• The traditional clay kitty litter has a heavy environmental impact due to the mining of the clay and it also does not decompose very well. According to Tree Hugger: over 2 million tons of non-biodegradable cat litter made from clay that is mined ends up in municipal landfills each year. There are, of course, different eco-friendly alternatives such as litter made from recycled paper. http://www.yesterdaysnews.com/

• Your pet needs a nice cozy bed, right? Either reuse a few old blankets to make a bed or try to purchase one that is made from sustainable, organic and/or recycled materials. Better for your pet and better for the environment.

• All pets love to play with toys, but how many do they really need? Limit the amount of toys you buy. I am pretty sure Fido will be happy with a few toys and won’t even know the difference.  Avoid the cheap plastic that may expose your pet to different chemicals. Look for toys made from natural fibers such as hemp and/or bamboo or even organic cotton. Here is a thought, give your dog a big frozen carrot to chew on. When it comes to their get-up, look for leashes and collars etc. made from sustainable materials as well.

• The number of animals that are homeless and abandoned is not decreeing. Spay and neuter your pets. This is not only beneficial to your pets health, but the planet. By deciding to humanly reduce the pet population, this lessens the stress animals place on the planet.

• Love your pet!

What have you done to reduce your pets everyday pawprint?

Small Footprints challenge for the week of October 19-26th: find one way to lower the environmental impact of your pet.

Source: Tree Hugger