According to the Environmental Working Group, our dogs, cats, puppies and kittens may have higher levels of toxic contaminates in their systems than we humans do.
From the EWG:
In recognition of the unique roles that pets play in our lives, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) undertook a study to investigate the extent of exposures pets face to contaminants in our homes and outdoor environments. In a novel study representing the broadest biomonitoring investigation yet conducted in pets, what we found was surprising.
Click here to read more about the study.
What can we do to help minimize the exposure of our pets to some of these chemicals?
Pets for the Environment has an evolving list of easy, useful suggestions. Here are just a few:
Choose pet food without the chemical preservatives BHA, BHT and ethoxyquin, vary cat diets to limit their exposure to mercury in seafood, and choose organic or free-range ingredients rather than by-products.
Use a reverse osmosis, faucet-mounted, or pitcher filter to remove contaminants before filling your pet’s water bowl.
Replace older foam pet bedding, and replace or reupholster furniture with exposed or crumbling foam where flame retardants are found.
Vacuum often with a HEPA-filter vacuum, and take off your shoes at the door to minimize your pets exposure to toxic chemicals in house dust.
Don’t get optional stain-proof treatments on couches, carpets and car upholstery—they are loaded with toxic perfluorochemicals.
Care for your lawn without using insecticides, which may cause nervous system damage in pets that walk on the treated lawn, eat the grass, or breathe in the chemicals.
click here for the complete list of Health Tips.
[...] Julie Ann wrote an interesting post today onHere’s a quick excerptIn recognition of the unique roles that pets play in our lives, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) undertook a study to investigate the extent of exposures pets face to contaminants in our homes and outdoor environments. … [...]
[...] Read the whole thing here. Apr 25, 2008 | | Uncategorized [...]