Pets/Animal Care
Overview
This week we are taking a look at our companion family members, e.g., dogs, cats, rabbits, pocket pets and chickens! Our pets impact the environment just like we do. From the food processed for them, the supplies and toys, to the packaging that everything comes in, let’s help them live sustainably, too.
Activities & Challenges
What is the most earth-friendly pet of all? A goldfish! Did you know you can water your plants with the old water from the fish bowl when you change it, to add valuable fertilizer to the plant? (Do not use the water if you have added salt, chemicals or medication to the bowl.)
ACTIVITIES:
- KIDS: Think about the kind of toys your pet plays with. Are they made of natural, recycled or repurposed materials, and are they recyclable or compostable? How could you make a sustainable toy for your pet?
- Is your pet’s food organic, free of artificial colors, flavors and preservatives, and does it come in recyclable packaging? Would you consider changing food, or writing to the manufacturer to request recyclable packaging?
- What sustainable pet products have worked for you?
Dog waste bags – compostable?
Cat litter – compostable?
Bedding for rabbits and pocket pets – all natural?
Cleaning products and shampoos – non-toxic and biodegradable?
Chickens – items to maintain the coop, enclosure, bedding, pest control?
Bird, fish, reptile or other pet?
Use the PETS/ANIMAL CARE ACTIVITIES Form to share ways that you care for your pet with sustainability in mind.
CHALLENGES:
- Dogs, cats and other pets give back to us, through love, exercise, companionship and more. Share how your pet makes a positive impact on the world.
- Re-purpose plastic produce bags or newspaper bags as “poop” bags. Don’t have a pet but want to contribute leftover plastic bags or interested in collecting plastic bags for your pet?
Use the PETS/ANIMAL CARE CHALLENGES Form to tell us what you’re doing or to participate in our Plastic Bag “Swap” effort!
Recycling with Maizie and Gracie (from the Callman Family)
Meet Our Cherryhill Neighborhood Pets!
Other Actions You Can Take
- As much as we love our companions, it’s important for us to consider their impact. Before you bring a companion home, do your research on how to properly care for him/her. If you can, choose to adopt a pet that needs a home, and always have pets spayed or neutered, and micro-chipped. Clean up pet waste and dispose of it in a responsible manner.
- Does your cat spend time outdoors? Sadly, cats kill enough songbirds that the songbird population is affected. Consider finding a way to make your cat less likely to kill a bird (bell on the collar, for instance).