Earth Day is just around the corner. It’s coming up on April 22nd this year. You’ve probably heard of carbon footprints, but have you considered your furry friend’s carbon pawprint? There are actually quite a few things you can do to make your pet’s care regime more eco-friendly. A local London, ON vet lists some of them below.

Recycle

That old adage of reduce, reuse, recycle certainly applies to pet care. Don’t throw that old end table away: turn it into a bed frame for Fluffy. An old stepladder can become a cat tower, while a big tire can become part of a bed for your canine buddy.

Use Eco-Friendly Cleaners

There are now lots of great products on the market that use renewable resources. When shopping for household cleaners, look for organic, earth-friendly versions. Also, try to stop using paper towels and napkins for cleaning your pet’s things. Opt for washable towels and microfiber cloths instead.

DIY Toys

One great way to give old things a second life is by going the DIY route with your pet’s toys and beds. For example, you can turn an old tee shirt into a rope toy for Fido or a pet tent for Fluffy. Or, start growing your own catnip, and make your feline buddy’s playthings. You’ll find many more great ideas online.

Adopt Instead Of Shopping

This is a big one! When it is time for you to bring a new animal companion into your home, go through a shelter or rescue instead of a pet store. There are far too many pets out there in desperate need of good homes.

Buy In Bulk

When buying pet food, try to buy in bulk when you can. This can reduce the amount of packaging you use.

Spay/Neuter

We strongly advise against letting your pet reproduce. Even if you find the tiny furballs loving homes, there’s no way to be sure that their offspring will fare so well. And, speaking of offspring, you may be shocked at how fast Fido and Fluffy can reproduce. A single pair of cats can have 11, 606, 077 descendants in just 9 years! Spaying and neutering your pet will help combat overpopulation, and direct much-needed resources to the pets that are already out there.

Is your pet due for veterinary care? Please contact us, your London, ON vet clinic, anytime. We’re here to help!