Do The Doo

Nothing says "sucker" quite like the sight of a human being bending over to pick up a pile of doggie doo. Having a pet is like having a toddler that will never become potty trained. You're stuck in perpetual diaper duty. And all of that duty makes for a pile of doodie that needs to go somewhere. Fortunately, you can still be a Green Parent while tending to your pet's needs. Here's how:

Dogs: Why place biodegradable doggie doo in a plastic bag that will keep it locked up for hundreds (if not thousands) of years? Instead, look for biodegradable poop bags that can be thrown in the compost bin (for use on non-food plants) or collected at your curb with other biodegradable yard waste. EcoChoices makes reasonably priced bags that are 100% biodegradable and made from non-genetically modified corn.

Cats: Traditional clumping clay litter is made from strip-mined clay that is infused with carcinogenic silica dust and sodium bentonite, chemicals that are harmful for the health of your cat as well as your children. Look for a non-toxic, biodegradable kitty litter such as the wheat-based, Swheat Scoop.

Rabbits: If you keep your rabbit in a cage, do not use cedar or other wood shavings as litter or bedding as these may cause liver damage or trigger allergic reactions. Like cats, rabbits can be litter trained and do best with organic litters made of paper, wood pulp, or citrus.

Ferrets: Ferrets also do well with a litter box. Look for biodegradable litters made from paper or plant fibers. And be sure to scoop regularly as ferrets are not great at the "cover-up."

Eco Paw Prints

Got pets? According to the Humane Society, there are currently 73 million dogs and 90 million cats in homes across the U.S. That's not to mention the birds, bunnies, ferrets, turtles, hamsters, and lizards that are also popular pets in families with children. Just like children, pets create a significant impact on the environment in the food, toys, and pet supplies used to keep them healthy and happy. Fortunately, you can reduce your pet’s ecological paw print with these quick tips:

1. Adopt: There are literally millions of animals out there in need of adoption. Save time, save money, and save the planet by adopting your next pet. (Check out Petfinder (www.petfinder.com) to search for a pet in your area.)
2. Snip Snip: Nobody wants to think about it, but having your pet spayed or neutered will prevent overpopulation and protect Fido's overall health.
3. Go Organic: Conventional pet food is made from disgusting selections of diseased and/or poor quality meat that is laden with chemicals. How long could you live on such a diet? Treat your pet to healthy natural or organic pet food.
4. Don't Buy Toys: Like children, pets are often amused with the simplest pleasures. Opt out of the consumer culture by lavishing your pet with toys that you already have around the house (I'm thinking a ball of yarn or pinecones from the back yard...NOT your bedroom slippers!)