Today is America Recycles Day! This is a great cause, and one we’re happy to spread awareness about. If you have a pet, you can definitely get your furry pal in on the fun. A local Sherman Oaks, CA vet offers some tips on pet-friendly recycling below.
Furniture
There’s almost no end to the things you can recycle into pet furniture. An old stepladder can become a cat tower with a little time and elbow grease. Just add planks to the steps to make kitty lounging spots, then wrap the whole thing in carpet or sisal rope. Voila! You can also make a litterbox enclosure out of an old chest, end table, or buffet. If you have a smaller pet, you can make a hatbox, hard-shell suitcase, or wooden crate into a comfy bed for them. For a larger dog, you can use pallets, coffee tables, or even wine barrels!
Toys
You can make quite a few pet toys out of things you probably have around the house. For example, you can turn an old tee shirt into a kitty tent for Fluffy or a rope toy for Fido. You can also make some catnip mice out of old socks, or make your canine buddy a pull toy from an old pair of jeans. Look online for more ideas.
Pet Products
Is your feline pal ignoring that fancy cat tower you got her a few years ago? Has Fido decided he no longer has any interest in what used to be his favorite toy? You may be able to donate these things to local shelters or to families in need instead of just throwing them away. It never hurts to offer!
Adoption
Adopting shelter pets may not exactly match the dictionary definition of recycling, but it definitely fits the spirit of conservation. Quite a few of our patients are former shelter pets that are now beloved, pampered animal companions. If you’re ready to bring a new dog or cat into your life, please consider going through a shelter, rather than a pet store or breeder. This is not only a great way to find your new pet, it’s also a wonderful way to promote good animal welfare.
Please do not hesitate to reach out if ever we can be of assistance. As your Tarzana, CA animal clinic, we’re dedicated to offering top-notch veterinary care.
