– by Dr. Shelley Breadner –
As we consider Earth day, it is always great to also consider our pets, and how our lives with them can be considerate of our earth. We can shop till we drop for our pets as much as we can for ourselves. That’s great for the economy, bur have you ever considered selecting things that are supportive of the environment as well?
Recycling is what most people consider when it comes to saving the environment. Consider our pets while at it. Take along more environmentally friendly plastic bags for the task of pooper scooping when out on walks. It’s the best option we have right now. Have you ever considered a sunken pit in your yard for your pooper scooping? Sounds gross, but stools will readily compost with a bit of sawdust or other vegetation. Predatory fly larvae can be applied in the summer to prevent fly growth in your “manure pits.” Cat droppings can be considered as well. We do not recommend putting these in your vegetable garden area due to potential for intestinal parasite exchange.
Chickens, on the other hand, have great manure for the garden. If you have backyard chickens or access to chicken or horse manure, this can be applied as fertilizer to your beds. Your vegetables will thank you!
Pet foods come in all sorts of packaging. Be proactive and strip the plastic liner from the paper-type bags and recycle. Foil bags and pouches as well as cans can also be recycled. Try to select packaging that is more recycle friendly, avoiding clamshell packages and hard plastic wraps around toys and gear.
Natural fabric collars such as hemp collars often have great designs and colours. Shop local at fairs and markets, and you can find some great dog gear at reasonable prices, often made right here in our neighbourhoods. Pet foods and treats that are made locally, or in our province, are more environmentally friendly than treats from other countries. Food items from China should be avoided if at all possible due to contamination risks.
Sitting out on the porch, listening to the birds with your cat settled on your lap, can do wonders for relieving stress. Getting out for hikes and bike rides with your dog gets you out of motorized vehicles and into the fresh air. The more we can connect with our earth and environment, the more we can appreciate and work toward making it a healthier place for ourselves and our pets.
For more information visit www.breadnervet.com.
