The Nature Conservancy. Protecting nature. Preserving life.™

Doesn’t it go without saying that pet owners automatically support animals living in nature as well? That may be the case. But sometimes good intentions miss the mark.

Here are some tips for enjoying nature with your pet when it’s appropriate, and for having a pet that benefits nature even when it stays home.

No Pets Allowed

Many nature preserves and other protected areas prohibit pets for many reasons. Here’s why.

• Pets can harm wildlife. They can’t help it! Most dogs can’t control the urge to hunt and kill rabbits, chipmunks, squirrels and any other critter that crosses their path. And while you are less likely to bring your feline friend on a nature hike, cats represent one of the biggest threats to resident and migrating songbirds.
   
• Pets carry diseases. Yes, it can go both ways! Dogs and cats can contract a disease from ticks and other insects and wild animals encountered along the trail. They also transmit viruses, bacteria, parasites and pathogens to wildlife through feces or direct contact.
   
• Pets aren’t native. Many nature preserve or other protected areas have been created to allow native wildlife to thrive in an uninhibited state. Animals that don’t fit that mold are considered invasive and should likely skip the trip. The biggest culprits in this regard include pets such as cats, rabbits, snakes, lizards and other critters that have been released into the wild when they’ve become difficult to care for.

Your Animal Can Help Others

While taking the pet to a nature preserve or park may not be ideal, buying certain products for your pet can benefit lands and waters in Kentucky and beyond. Here are a few things you can do.

• Buy green. Give your furry friends products made from recycled and/or non-toxic materials. Such purchases keep garbage and chemicals out of landfills and waterways. They are usually more durable and hypoallergenic for your pet!
   
• Go organic! Instead of feeding a pet more conventional cans of heavily processed food made of animal by-products and fillers, consider minimally processed natural and organic options that meet strict USDA standards that ensure no pesticides, hormones, antibiotics and artificial preservatives or ingredients go into your pet’s bowl, belly and eventually the great outdoors.
   
• Put poop in the right place. On that note, invest in biodegradable poop bags or cat litter to ensure that pet waste can benefit, rather than degrade, the natural world.