Earth Day encourages everyone to appreciate the world around them and do something kind for the environment. Recycling, picking up trash, planting native species in your yard, and taking public transit or riding a bike instead of driving a car are all ways in which you can help the earth. This year, bring your pet along for Earth Day or do something with your pet that helps reduce strain on the environment. The following are some ways you can celebrate Earth Day with your pet and help make a difference in the world around you.
Take your dog for a walk in the park or swim at the beach!
Many communities have paths that are friendly to dogs, while your pups are enjoying a walk, chasing a stick, swimming at the beach, or socializing, make it a point to look for loose trash to pick up and toss into garbage cans. If necessary, please remember to dry out your dog’s ears after they’ve been in the water lest they get a yeast infection that needs a trip to our vet clinic!
Recycle your gently used pet supplies
Most of us are guilty of hoarding stuff for our pets, even if they never use it. If you happen to have gently used bedding, towels, leashes, toys, bowls, or other pet supplies your pets don’t use or just never liked, try recycling them! Animal shelters are always in need of these items. Donating unused or gently used pet supplies to animal shelters keeps these items out of the landfill and helps the shelters with keeping pets comfortable and entertained.
Recycle Your Pet's Water
Did you know that each American uses an average of 88 gallons of water a day at home? 1 This is excluding pet owners who need to constantly keep their pet hydrated and clean. Rather than throwing out your pet’s water down the drain, give your house plants life with it! This is an easy habit to implement, especially since the water is already in a bowl you can simply pour over your greenery.
Take your dog for a walk to your favorite pet-friendly brewery or restaurant
Check out the breweries and/or restaurants near you and see if they allow pets. If so, you can take your dog for a walk with the knowledge they’re prepared to serve you BOTH in a fun, pet-friendly environment. Walking means you can leave your car at home, everyone gets exercise, and you can enjoy time out without worrying about your dog at home. FYI, never give your dog beer, even if they beg. If your pet ingests any alcohol, please reach out to our veterinary team at Companion Veterinary and Urgent Care Center!
Dispose of your pet’s waste
When taking your pet on walks or to the park, make sure you are prepared to properly dispose of your pet’s waste. Before leaving the house, consider bringing a pooper scooper or clipping one of those small recyclable poop bag dispensers to your furry friend’s leash.
When at home clean up droppings around the yard at least once a week. You can either flush them down the toilet or dispose of them in a secured baggie in the trash can. Pet waste composters are also available if you are interested.