Indoor air pollution is steadily increasing, and our animals are even more vulnerable to toxic airborne chemicals than we are. Long term chemical exposure can lead to respiratory problems, skin diseases, various other diseases affecting organs such as the liver and kidneys, and even cancer. We can make our homes more environmentally healthy for our pets by using products that contain fewer toxic chemicals. The following list provides the names of products that may contain airborne chemicals and some healthier alternative products.
| CHEMICAL SOURCES | SUBSTITUTES | | Paints | Low toxic water based paints (low VOCs), casein | | Synthetic Carpets | Natural materials such as sisal, seagrass, coir, wool (untreated with lindate, etc) | | Vinyl Flooring | Cork, linoleum | | Varnishes | Beeswax, linseed oil, unfinished wood | | Cleaning Products | Water & vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda, hydrogen peroxide | | Fabric Softener | Avoid using (due to amount of chemical emissions) | | Plywood, Composition Boards | Solid wood, Exterior plywood only | | Room Deodorizers | Cloves, lavendar, scented flowers, open windows | | Glue | Use wood glue instead of solvent - based glue. Ventilate house. | | Synthetic Pesticides | Clean & vacuum regularly.
Close off any openings in home.
Avoid building materials around foundation that could attract insects. | | Laundry Detergents | Unscented products, biodegradable |
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