Celebrate Earth Day with Your Animal Friends!

Every year on April 22, Earth Day reminds us to appreciate our beautiful planet and protect it. But did you know your pets can be a part of the celebration? Here are some fun and eco-friendly ways to celebrate Earth Day with your animal companions:

Go Green at Home:

• Hit your local trails: Lace up your walking shoes, grab your leash, and head outdoors with your dog for a nature hike. Explore new trails, breathe in the fresh air, and soak up the scenery together.
• Backyard fun: Don’t have time for a long hike? No problem! Create an Earth Day obstacle course in your backyard with recycled materials like cardboard boxes and tunnels. Your cat can chase a feathery toy through the “eco-maze” while your bunny enjoys hopping over cardboard “hurdles.”
• Park clean-up: Help keep our parks clean by picking up trash with your furry companion by your side. This is a great way to bond with your pet while giving back to the environment. Just remember to bring biodegradable poop bags!
• Plant a pet-friendly garden: Planting a garden is a fantastic way to improve air quality and create shade for your furry/feathery companions. Choose trees, flowers, and herbs that are safe for your animals such as catnip, parsley, or oat grass. This is a fun and sustainable way to provide your furry friend with a healthy snack, too.

Go Green and help the Humane Society of Missouri:

• DIY pet toys: The Humane Society’s Education Department welcomes creative minds (young and old) to make toys and enrichment for the animals. The Education Department accepts donations of baby and adult socks (for tug toys), fleece and fabric scraps (for blankets and crinkly toys), and yarn and ribbon (for cat toys). It’s a win-win: you get to reduce, reuse, and recycle and shelter animals receive some enrichment!
• Out with the old, in the with new: Thinking of decluttering your home? Hold onto those gently used towels, blankets, and rags. The Humane Society is always in need of clean and comfortable bedding for their furry (and feathery) residents. Giving your old items a second life helps animals in need while saving on waste! Find our wish list here.
• Donate to a cause: Show your love for animals (both yours and those waiting for forever homes) with a donation to the Humane Society in your pet’s name. Every contribution helps them provide a safe and caring haven for animals who have been abused, neglected, or abandoned.

Remember, every little bit counts! By incorporating these Earth Day activities with your pets, you’re not only creating lasting memories but also making a positive impact on the planet we all share.