Great Big Green Week 2023

17th June 2023

Throughout Great Big Green Week 2023 (10th to 18th June) we've shared all kinds of helpful hints and tips on how pet owners can help protect the planet! We thought we'd summarise all of these ideas in one place for you to refer back to...

1. Consider whether you can explore your local area on foot with your dog rather than jumping in the car to get to your walk. Of course, if you live in the city you might need to travel but challenge yourself to find close green spaces to enjoy together! 
2. Recycle your junk - old toilet rolls, old clothing and boxes can make great toys for your pet. You could make a search game with an old box or knot an unwanted top to make a great tuggy toy. Alternatively, head to one of our charity shops and pick an item to recyle from there! 
3. Leaving parts of your garden 'wild' will not only help insect life and biodiversity but also provide a great space for your cat to explore. Planting different herbs and vegetation provides enrichment and, to help protect the birds and other wildlife you could attach a bell to your cat's quick-release safety collar.
4. Each year on average over 1000 bags go to landfill for every dog! Cut the number of bags going to landfill by using biodegradable or compostable poo bags (but remember not to use the dog poo compost on anything you are going to eat!). Ensure you clear up after your dog as no one likes a dog poo-shoe or a poo bag tree! 
5. Create a pet-toy library or swap shop. We all love to play with our pets but what happens if the toy we've bought just doesn't make the grade? If your pet isn't interested in a particular toy any more, why not swap it with another pet-owning friend? You could even set up a local pet toy 'library' in your village or town. Don't forget our Orchard Yard Shops have some fantastic second-hand pet toys available. 
6. Many pet food containers are recyclable. Check your pets preferred brand to see if they can be recycled and find your nearest pet food recycling location or pick up a Pet Food Packaging - Zero Waste Box. Find out more on the Terracycle Website. 
7. Make your own pet treats! It's important that your pet gets a balanced diet, but many of the additional treats we give to our pets have plastic packaging and significant food miles, not to mention the distribution of carbon emissions. Lickimats are built with sustainability in mind, by avoiding the use of silicone and only using rubber which is non-toxic and pet safe. We created a mostly homegrown and sustainable recipe to help your pets beat the heat and live a healthy life. This summer why not try growing your own strawberries, cucumbers, carrots and blueberries to feed yourselves and your dogs - click to find out how!

If you have any questions, feel free to email ask@oaktreeanimals.org.uk