(NC)—Pets love green space. Ask any pet lover who has felt the pull of their dog at the end of a leash, or has watched their cat sun himself in the rays of sunshine.

As cities expand across Canada, open green spaces for both pets and people to enjoy are often hard to come by. Lack of green spaces mean less unplanned explorations in the park with dogs and owners, less butterfly watching for cats, and more serious consequences for people and the environment. Not only does green space influence health and quality of life in our communities, it improves air quality, reduces stormwater runoff and modifies temperatures.

Thankfully, more and more Canadians are changing the way they live, work and play to protect the environment for future generations. Reducing your pet’s environmental “paw-print” can include small changes that make a difference. This summer, as you dust off your dog’s leash or cat’s harness, consider how you can preserve the environment that you and your pet love so much.

Purina’s Paws for the Planet initiative shares green tips with pet lovers to reduce their impact on the environment at www.PawsForThePlanet.ca, and supports Evergreen, a national charity dedicated to making cities more livable by enhancing and restoring dynamic outdoor spaces.

“Purina is proud to be contributing over $50,000 to support Evergreen’s Common Grounds program. As part of the Paws for the Planet initiative, pet-owners are also encouraged to declare their earth-friendly commitments online,” explains Anil Rege of Nestlé Purina PetCare. “Every YES on our pet-related green pledges at the Paws For The Planet website triggers an additional donation from us to Evergreen.”

Here are pet friendly green tips from Purina’s Paws for the Planet, to inspire pet lovers to make their own pledges for the environment.

Green Tips for your dog:

• Explore the neighbourhood with your dog on foot. By minimizing driving, you can reduce your carbon footprint.
• Always leash your dog in forests, wildlife areas and wetlands to minimize their impact on plantlife and wildlife.
• Use eco-friendly biodegradable dog waste bags since plastic bags can take decades to decompose.

Green Tips for your cat:

• Avoid using bleach when cleaning cat litter boxes. Give them a good scrub using hot water and vinegar.
• By placing a bell on your cat’s collar, birds and other wildlife will be alerted.
• Grow your own organic catnip. Your cat will thank you.

Green Tips for all pets:

• Resources are being stretched at animal shelters. Consider adopting a deserving pet.
• Use pet shampoo and grooming products that are phosphate-free to help keep our water clean.
• Buy non-toxic recyclable toys and accessories for your pet – they’re good for the environment and easy on your pet’s digestive system.

This summer, more pet friendly green tips can be found in the pet food aisle or at www.PawsForThePlanet.ca.

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