Pet Parent Day

It seems like everyone is included in holidays and events each year, with parents day, grandparents day, children day and more recently the introduction of Pet Parent Day on the last Sunday of April (25th April 2010). This is one day a year dedicated to those who have pets in their life and spend time, energy and money providing the best possible care for that pet. Remember though that pets can have a huge impact on the earth regarding the products we use and buy to care for our pets, which increases our households carbon footprint, so let’s look at some ways to help our pets go green!

Adopt first!
First up is to thoroughly check out the source from which you purchase your pet. Don’t support puppy mills! Buy dogs from reputable breeders not pet stores, or even better rescue a pet from you local shelter! Shelters don’t just have dogs and cats anymore, so check for small pets such as rabbits, birds, reptiles and larger pets like goats and horses. Your local animal control should be able to inform you of shelter pet types available in your area, including open hours and adoption fees etc.

Stop the overpopulation!
Once you have your pet, be a responsible owner and spay/neuter your pet. If money is a problem then check your local resources for low cost clinics in your area, or check out your local animal shelter for reduced prices on surgeries. If you adopt from a shelter most will insist on the pet being spayed or neutered before being adopted and the fee is very reasonable if they do this before you take the pet home. Become part of the solution not the problem – spay and neuter!

Check the labels
Just as you are checking the labels of your own foods and toiletries take a second glance at the pet food and products! If it’s not something you’d use yourself why are you putting your dog or cat at risk? Opt for natural organic where possible. Many pet food and toiletry companies now offer natural alternatives made with good wholesome ingredients.

Choose natural
Instead of opting for a brush with a plastic handle, opt for wood instead. Or if you have to buy a collar or leash think about natural alternatives like hemp and rope as natural alternatives to plastic collars. Also get dog name tags and place the relevant information on them. Most pet stores have machines that will engrave your details on a metal tag, avoid the plastic where possible!

Avoid unnecessary chemicals
Flea and tick prevention is important, but can be achieved with natural sources rather than chemicals. Cedar-wood is a great for deterring insects like fleas. Neem, citrus and eucalyptus is reported to deter flea’s and ticks also. Why not try a little spritz spray with water and a drop or two of essential oils instead. Our dogs seem to be flea/tick free by using Dr Bronner’s citrus or eucalyptus bar soap once a month.

Happy pet parents day!

dalgal | My Bio & Articles