Did you know that April 22nd is Earth Day? The first Earth Day was established in 1970 by Senator Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin. Today – more than ever – as the world population continues to grow, it’s important for all of us to do our part in helping to keep planet Earth clean and habitable. One small thing pet owners can do is create sustainable DIY pet toys for their furry friends. It’s both easy and fun to do!
Got Socks?
Have you ever noticed how much fun your dog can have with an empty water bottle? What about socks? If your dog loves both, there’s a very easy toy you can make! Before you recycle that water bottle or toss that sock with no partner, here’s what you can do instead: place the water bottle inside the sock, tie the end off, and ta-dah! You have a pawsome new toy for your furry friend! Old rags, shirts, and pants work just fine too!
Another easy toy to make with old socks involves just one other ingredient: water. Simply tie the sock into a ball, soak the sock in water, and place it in the freezer. In just a few hours, your dog can enjoy this fun new toy! Simply rinse and repeat – this is an especially great toy for the warmer months!
Get Baking!
Ok, this toy doesn’t actually involve any oven time at all! If you have a muffin tin and tennis balls, you’re set. Simply place tennis balls in the muffin tin and place it on the floor. It’s an instant puzzle for your pup! Watch as he (or she) determines how to get the tennis balls out of the tin cups!
Another food-related toy that involves no real cooking can be made simply from a cereal box; Or any cardboard box you may have leftover from the kitchen! Ever notice how much your pet loves cardboard? Just place a few treats inside the empty box, seal it shut, and watch them have at it!
Have Fun!
While the pet industry continues to grow with tons of new pet products on the shelves these days, we can help by consuming less and creating more. Next time you go to throw out that old towel or sock, wrap a treat in it (after washing of course!) and throw it to the dogs! Our pets are so easily entertained – they don’t value things based off of how much money we spend on them!
Do you have any fun tips for DIY dog toys? Let us know in the comments below! We’d love to hear of your ideas!