National Geographic says the economic downturn is hitting pets and animal shelters hard.
Blogfish reports that fish really is brain food.
EarthFirst has creative uses for old dumpsters.
Ecorazzi talks about KFC’s new unchicken.
Tiny Choices looks into greener electronics.
I carry a titanium backpacking spork around in my purse. I know that sounds kind of weird, but it saves me from using disposable utensils when I eat out, and it’s so light, I never even notice that I’m carrying it.
Before the Industrail Revolution it was common for guests to be expected to bring their own utensils with them when invited to dine, because utensils were expensive, labor intensive items, and most people didn’t own extra sets. Now, when it’s possible to buy a set of 1,000 plastic utensils for under $20, people don’t even think about bringing their own.
But think of the plastic waste that can be saved by slipping a fork from home in your purse on the way out the door. You don’t need anything fancy. Grab one from your kitchen drawer, or if you’re worried about loosing a piece of a set, pick up a few spare utensils the next time you hit a discount store, thrift shop, or yard sale. It’s simple a simple way to cut down waste, and it’s always nicer to eat with real utensils anyway.
I’m am an animal lover. I’ve raised two cats to see the ages of 3 and 4, after being rescued from a local barn where they weren’t getting nearly the care the needed. As luck would have it, I wasn’t able to take more than those two in at one time, and their brothers and sisters were soon eaten by foxes.
With the economic trouble as of late, I was reluctant to bring any more pets into my life. I’ve just moved 50+ miles from my current job, yet continuing to commute until I can find a job closer to my current apartment. Lets just say that I’m filling up my gas tank every other day and I’m not a happy camper.
Cats are relatively easy to take care of, compared to dogs. They don’t need to be walked at certain times of the day. They can easily entertain themselves, they’re not nearly as noisy or smelly. But, after taking two more little buggers in, I’m reminded of just how expensive it is to properly care for pets!
Litter and food alone set me back $50/ mo. The first vet visit put me $130 in the hole, for them both to get a once over, claws trimmed, ears cleaned out, flea / worm medicine, ear mite cream/gel. The next round includes vaccinations, then there will be neutering right around the corner.
I think that many first time pet owners jump into the situation oblivious of the hard costs associated with owning a pet. I personally, believe that the companionship / entertainment out weigh the hard costs, but I can see why many people are forced to give up their pets during economic hardships!