For cats and dogs, paws and tongues are basic tools. Tongues become washcloths, paws become utensils. They stick their noses everywhere. Much more than us, our pets interact and meld with their environment. They live “nose deep” in the world.
This modern world is risky for our barefoot brethren. They walk thru an environment full of synthetics and chemicals. They eat off the floor. Their foods come in plastic lined cans and Teflon coated bags. They sleep on bedding soaked in flame retardants and stain resistant chemicals. Loving guardians pet them after handling all types of materials—some safe, others not so safe. They chew on toys containing plastics, dyes, and heavy metals. How is this “nose deep” experience effecting our companions?
The Environmental Working Group (EWG) is a not-for –profit, researching and educating about the impact of industrial toxins on our health. They are also concerned about companion animals. They recently tested the blood and urine of cats and dogs, looking for 70 common industrial chemicals. Their study found 48 of these potentially toxic chemicals, with 43 at much higher levels than found in humans.
Among the chemicals found at high levels were: Teflon, Phthalates (Plasticizers), Fire Retardants, and BPA. Future posts will discuss these in detail.
Until then, take a moment-- look around. If you were at floor level, barefoot, and using just your hands and tongue as basic tools-- how would it be for you?
