By michael - February, 17th 2014

As a responsible pet owner, you can take a few simple steps that will go a long way toward keeping your pet healthy and happy. The American Animal Hospital Association suggests these practical tips that can ensure your pet's health and happiness.

Many pet owners will attest that having a cat or dog to cuddle can brighten your day. What they may not know is that it may also improve your health. A 2010 study from the University of Missouri School of Veterinary Medicine found that positive interactions with animals can raise levels of the hormone oxytocin, which helps encourage healing and new cell growth.

Since pets can be exposed to harmful toxins in their food, litter, and flea medicine, bringing green-living values to pet ownership may help extend the life of your beloved animal companion. Meanwhile, your pet-related purchases will also support the green economy.

Here are Green America’s top five high-impact ways to green your dog or cat:.

Put Your Pet on a Low-Carbon Diet

Just like a human, omnivorous cats and dogs eat food with a significant greenhouse gas footprint: namely, food with beef or lamb in it. The Environmental Working Group’s “Meat …

A pet owner should keep the environment safe for his pet. Pesticides should be kept out of reach of your pets. In some homes, there are several poisonous plants which can affect the health of your pets. Electrical wires are usually chewed by dogs or cats which can be very hazardous for their health. A little care to make the environment of your home safe can prevent the accidents. The diet of your pets should contain Vitamin E as it contains anti-aging and disease fighting properties. You should serve them green leafy vegetables like peas, spinach, cabbage, cauliflower. It should also contain sweet potato, apples, blueberries, squash, raw onions, etc

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