Plastic Free

Pets

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House hold companions, such as dogs, cats, birds, guinea pigs, etc. can carry a plastic footprint too.  As animal owners, we must be aware of the plastic pollution we are creating with the products we purchase for them.  Below are helpful hints to creating a plastic free life for our loveable creatures.

 

TOILETING

• Natural flushable litter that comes in a paper bag

  • This is only good for solely indoor cats, as outdoor cats have an increased risk of toxoplasmosis and other parasites that can be transferred into the water system that can survive water treatment process and impact humans and wildlife.  If you have an outdoor cat, put the natural litter in a biodegradable bag.

• Teach your animals to use the toilet (if you and your animal have patience and time) – they may be smarter than you think.

• Pooper Scooper and Flush into the Toilet

• Biodegradable Bags

 

PLAY TIME

Like human toys, animal plastic toys can contain harmful chemicals such as BPA and other toxins.  Like humans, animals can be affected by the toxic chemicals that plastic toys carry as they are played with and as they break down (chewed on).

• Think – cloth, hemp, linen, rope, natural rubber wood toys.

 

For cats who like their cat trees or other climbing animals invest in bamboo or wood structures with linen or sisal or natural fibers.

• Cardboard is alternative material for scratching mats.

• Be aware of carpet structures if the carpet is made of synthetic material (ie plastic).

• One Green Planet has created a list for 10 DIY ideas for dogs and cats and Eco-friendly toys for dogs.

• Purrfect Play is an American brand that is eco-friendly.

 

DINNER TIME

A good portion of pet foods (aside from non-plastic lined cans) unfortunately are packed in plastic. To help limit the footprint of waste for your animal companions think:

• Buy in Bulk

• Take your own bag or container to the butchers.

• Buy from pet food bar or treat bar

• DIY animal food

• Remember serve your pet’s food in a container other than plastic, such as stainless steel, glass or bamboo.

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