Advice/Tip: 7 ways to reduce your pet's carbon paw print

Copied from: Green Living Journal, Portland. * = comments I have added below.

Are you a pet lover & an earth lover? Many of you work hard to reduce your carbon footprint, but you often overlook the problem of your pet's 'carbon paw print'. Here are 7 tips you can take to help your pets be more environmentally friendly:

1. Clean up after your pet regularly
The accumulation of pet waste is not only a health hazard, gut it has a real environmental impact, especially if storm drains carry it into waterways. The EPA estimates that two or three days worth of droppings from a population of about 100 dogs would contribute enough bacteria to temporarily close a bay, and all watershed areas within 20 miles of it, to swimming and also fishing.

2. Use biodegradable bags to dispose of pet waste
Every pet owner should be using biodegradable waste bags. A recent study in San Francisco determined that pet waste makes up 3>8% of residential landfills. (WOW!) Much of this landfill problem is the result of pet waste that is disposed of in regular plastic bags. Using biodegradable bags allows the pet waste to go back to the earth as nature intended.

3. Recycle your pet waste
Consider using an in-ground pet waste septic system. These septic systems are a sanitary and environmentally friendly alternative for pet waste disposal.

4. For cat lovers, consider using kitty litter made from recycled or organic materials.
Traditional clay-based kitty litters contribute significantly to landfills and do not biodegrade. Greener choices are available, including recycled newspaper or flushable kitty litter made from organic materials, such as corn, wheat and wood.

*Clay based litters and also any clumping litters are also responsible for human and pet allergies and annoyances around your home. It is extremely unhealthy to breathe in the clouds of clay that are produced each time your cat is in the box scratching around and also when you go to scoop out the litter. I can't stay working with these litters and I will bring a sterile mask with me so that I'm not breathing in the harmful contents of what else is in the clay litter or other clumping litters. I highly recommend using the Trader Joe's brand kitty litter which is made with recycled wood products, which are shaped like little cylinders, which when peed on, they turn into dust. Then any of the remaining dust can be either thrown into the Yard Waste container OR you can use it in your garden or put it anywhere on the ground, as long as it's just dirt and/or vegetation. This is so convenient.

5. Purchase all-natural pet food products
Look for the many healthy and eco-friendly alternatives for pet foods. Select foods that do not contain rendered meat or animal byproducts, and avoid pet foods made from protein sources, that may contain growth hormones or antibiotics. As we are continuing to learn regarding animal food products, we have learned about the unhealthy effects of gluten grains, including wheat and corn - which is the 'filler' used in most generic and some "natural" pet foods. Research indicates that pets have a difficult time digesting these sticky substances, which can even block the absorbtion of important nutrients. Most pets, especially dogs, are raised on wheat and corn, the top 3 ingredients in most foods. There are now so many health problems associated with dogs - incluging joint problems, itchy skin and allerigies - which are usually a result of the diet, which is one of the things your vet will look at once he/she has ruled out other problems with tests. Most dog food doesnn't provide enough protein to keep them healthy. And most protein sources are very low quality!

*If you see the words (name of meat like chicken) + 'meal' as the first ingredient listed on the ingredients list, stay far away. Meat meal is not good for your pets and wouldn't you want your pets getting the real thing, instead of body parts, bones which shouldn't be in food in the first place and unfresh ingredients? I certainly don't. I know the list of natural foods is pretty daunting, but if you do your research, talk to your vet or someone else that is knowledgeable regarding your pet's health and if they have any allergies, or other problems, to be able to pick the best brand of food for your pet. I recommend the California Naturals brands, as well as Evo Innova and others like Tiki Cat canned food - my cat loves this food, as well as California's Naturals wet food options. You should try to stay as far away from processed foods for our pets. I know it's harder to do and may be more expensive, but you're going to get a happy pet, who is getting all of their required daily nutrients & vitamins and you may also see a major change in your pet, especially if he/she suffered from things like IBS, kidney stones, joint stiffness, etc. If you eat organic, so should your pet.

6. Use eco-friendly pet grooming products
Avoid products that contain phosphates, sulfates & other chemicals that can be harmful to the environment. Earthbath pet shampoos & bath wipes do not contain any chemicals. If you purchase pet shampoos or flea & tick control products, please read the label and select products that are made from natural earth-friendly ingredients. Some chemicals can be unhealthy for your pet and can leave a residual "toxic trail" wherever they go. If you send your pet to the groomer, ask the groomer if they have a choice of earth-friendly products.

7. Buy earth-friendly pet toys and other products
When you buy toys, pet beds or other products for your pet, look for items that are made from all-natural materials. Remember, you have a choice in the products and services you buy for your pet.