Sadly though, in 2009 alone, there were more than 195,000 cases managed by Animal Poison Control Center of the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). Even if you are an attentive and environmentally friendly individual, there are harmful chemicals in things that seem innocent to us that could be deadly to your furry friend.

Here are 5 ways to Detox your living area not just for you, but for your four-legged companion:

1. Keep an eye out for certain plants
   1. There are certain plants that are extremely dangerous for the well-being of your pets. Now, we can’t control what our neighbors plant, but planting the proper plants in your own garden (and sharing this article with your neighbors) might help your pets live healthier. Here is a list of plants to stay away from:
      • Lilies – Cause serious liver damage in cats
      • Sago palm – cause vomiting, diarrhea and liver failure
      • Tulips – cause gastrointestinal irritation, nervous system problems and cardiac abnormalities
      • Azaleas/rhododendron – vomiting, drooling, diarrhea and in severe cases, coma and death.
      • Oleander – abnormal heart function, hypothermia and even death
      • Chrysanthemum – Depression and loss of coordination
2. Watch for holiday hazards in the forms of decorations and food
   • Onions
   • Garlic
   • Avocados
   • Coffee grounds
   • Alcohol
   • Grapes/raisons
   • Rising bread dough

Holiday decorations, especially in the upcoming winter months, add a lot of decorations and food being cooked that is not part of the     normal schedule of your household. A lot of decorations are hazardous to pets, including, but not limited to, tinsel, lights, and candle-burning menorahs. There are also certain holiday foods that can be toxic for pets. Here are some items to look out for:

3. Keep the medicine cabinet contained

If medicine falls into the paws of your pet, the consequences could be deathly severe. Keep medications, shampoo, make-up and lotions on higher shelves and/or in cabinets with latches. If your pet is prescribed medication, ask the doctor about any side effects you might encounter with your pet and clarify and storage needs or procedure requirements.

4. Purchase green cleaning supplies

Like with medicines, keeping cleaning supplies stored properly will keep your pet safe and healthy. Choosing green cleaning supplies will further guarantee the green living possibilities for your pet and keep them safe from harm.

5. Purify pet toys and personal items

Keep an eye out for who manufactures your pet’s toys and where they come from. Do not bleach your pet’s toys unless you make sure to dilute the bleach before hand and air out the toy and dry after cleaning. It makes more sense for safety reasons to clean using a mild dish soap and water instead. Use dye-free detergent when washing all bedding or blankets, especially I they chew on them.

As we said on our green cleaning page, organic cleaners tend to have less alcohol and ammonia, which makes them not only smell good and not have that alcohol smell that many cleaning supplies have, but also creates an atmosphere where you have fewer chemicals in your home. Another great aspect of green cleaning products is that they use everyday products one can find around the house!

Creating your own green cleaning products is simple, and they can be used on almost every surface. Here are some tips on how to make your own green cleaning products and where to use them.

Porcelain and Tile

• Baking soda and water
• Lemon juice or vinegar
• Disinfectant

Kitchen Counters

• Baking soda and water
• Kosher salt and water
• Natural disinfectant

Windows and Mirrors

• White vinegar, water and newspaper (a substitute for the vinegar is lemon juice and/or club soda)

Carpet and Rug

• Beat the rugs
• Club soda
• Cornmeal
• Spot cleaner
• Baking soda/cornstarch (deodorizes)

Wood Flooring

• Vinegar and water

Silverware

• Aluminum foil, boiling water, baking soda and salt

All of these combinations are usually taken in equal parts. The green cleaning product of natural disinfectant that is mentioned is composed of 2 cups water, 3 tablespoons of liquid soap and 20-30 drops of tea tree oil.

Shower Porcelain or Tile
Do you have pesky, soap scum stains or mildew? Spray them with a little lemon juice, wait a few minutes, and then scrub them off with a stiff brush.

Kitchen Counters
Have your kitchen counters lost their shine over the years? Bring them back with baking soda and water. Sprinkle a little baking soda on the counter and then scrub them with a damp cloth or sponge.

Mirrors or Windows
If you’re having trouble getting those smudges and fingerprints out off of your windows or mirrors – mix two tablespoons of White Vinegar with a gallon of water and dispense into a spray bottle. Spray your windows or mirrors with the solution and use a newspaper to scrub off.

Carpet Stains
You know what’s coming; club soda. Attack that stain right away by blotting it with an old rag and then pour the club soda right away. The soda’s carbonation brings the spill to the surface and the salts in the soda will take care of the stain.

Wood Floors
Wood floors never do well with a wet mop. Combine a ¼ cup of white vinegar with about 30 ounces of warm water. Spray the solution on a cotton rag or towel and use it to mop your floors.

Clogged Drains
Please put the hanger away. It’s won’t get all the gunk clogging your drain, plus it’s gross. Instead, pour ½ cup of baking soda into the clogged drain and follow it up by 2 cups of boiling water. If it’s still not working, try a chaser of a ½ cup of vinegar right after the baking soda.

Green cleaning isn’t tough to do. By utilizing just a few of these ideas, you’ll be able to avoid using harsh detergents and chemicals in your home which can be particularly dangerous to small children and pets. Using these natural ingredients in your every day green cleaning you can leave yourself and the environment feeling renewed and refreshed.