Your pet is like your family member. For going green, check on your pet. A little change in daily routine can help in many ways. Humans are one of the top reasons for climate change. But your pets also have some impact on the environment. You can start from the basics to become an eco-friendly person. As a pet owner, you can follow a few tips to reduce waste that can harm the environment.
1.Purchase Organic food for your pets
The first step to going green with pets is by purchasing organic food. These food items are very healthy for your pets. Organic food items are chemical-free like artificial fertilizers or pesticides. The use of pesticides harms soil fertility. Less use of these chemical items is also good for wildlife. Start feeding a small amount of organic food to your pet. If your pet is loving it then you can easily switch your pet food to organic and help the environment.
2.Buy pet products wisely
Along with the food items, you purchase lots of other things for your pets. Whenever you purchase anything, remember to avoid plastic or any chemical items. People often purchase items like toys, hats, etc for their dogs or cats. Always search for items with 0 plastic content. These plastic items are not only harmful to nature but for pets also. If your pet swallows any plastic item you may have to rush to the veterinarian. Before purchasing items like leashes, collars, and toys; check the material. Always buy products that are made of natural fiber or material and green your pet. Also, search for an eco-friendly shampoo that is manufactured with natural ingredients.
3.Scoop poop
Always scoop the poop of your pets. Whenever you take your pets on a walk for morning poop; carry something to scoop the poop. Pet litter can pollute the water resource and can also spread diseases. So, instead of wrapping the poop in a plastic bag and throwing it in the dustbin; make a compost pit. Go to the garden and make a small compost pit; don’t mix it with other compost you use in gardening. There are certain bacteria in dogs’ poop like toxoplasma, E.coli, etc.
4.Buy reusable supplies
There are several pet items you should change. Always buy washable puppy pads. Your one washable puppy pad can reduce the use of a hundred disposable pads. These pads are a bit costly but one buy can save money. For toys, go for items that are washable. Whenever your pet’s bear gets dirty, just put it in your washing machine. Always buy steel bowls as the plastic items won’t work well. Pets often break those bowls and you have to purchase them often. But on steel bowls, you can easily clean them and use them for a year.
5.Keep an eye on your cats
Your small kitty is a cute pet for you. But for the birds, your cat is a predator. Your little cat can hunt birds and other small rodent animals like rabbits, squirrels, etc. Many times, the cat hunts rats and brings them to the home. Your pets love to show off what they have done. Always keep your cats inside to protect birds. Also, don’t let them eat rats. People often use poison to kill rats. If your cat eats that rat; you have to visit the veterinary shop. Always have an eye on your pets to ensure that they are not harming any birds.
6.Shop Local
Shopping locally can also help the environment. With a busy schedule, people often buy dog food products from online stores. In online stores, you can get large varieties of pet food and other items. You can buy items without walking out. But your pet item is coming from very far away. Online shopping means more carbon footprints. Instead of purchasing pet items online, get them when you are buying groceries. You can easily find pet items in the grocery store. In case they are not available in grocery stores; drive to pet stores and purchase in bulk. Don’t forget to check the expiry date to ensure that the food doesn’t go bad.
7.Recycle pet’s fur
If you have a dog breed like Husky or Samoyed then dealing with fur becomes difficult. You can see dog fur everywhere. All your black clothes look white. Your bed sheet is always full of dog fur. Never forget to comb your pet after bathing. Now collect all the fur and keep it in a bag. Don’t throw the fur as you can use it in other places. Use them in the potted plants as the full contains nitrogen which is good for plants and flower growth. Many birds also use animal fur for building their nest.
8.Donate pet’s items
People keep their pets like kids and often buy new items for them. If you get a new blanket for your dog, don’t throw away the old one. You can donate all these items to the local animal shelter. If you have pet food that is about to expire or your pet is not eating it then donate it. You can search for NGOs or people from animal welfare. Your small steps can help other animals.
9.Check your pet grooming items
Other than the food, the item you buy the most is pet shampoos. These shampoos contain lots of chemicals and toxic items. For grooming, search for non-toxic shampoos. These products are a bit costly but good for pets. Shampoos with chemical ingredients can damage the fur and can also harm the eyes. But non-toxic grooming items are safe and good for the pet fur.
10.Buy essentials only
Your pets are simple; they only need a few things. A happy dog needs food, water, a walk, a collar, medical care, and your love. Instead of purchasing lots of fancy items, talk your dog to a healthy walk. Your pet prefers your love over attractive toys. Buy only essential things and give your time and love to your pet.
