Polluted Pets Are Full of Environmental Toxins

You can't read a paper without learning about the health impact of pollution, but many people are shocked to learn that our pets are carrying a significant toxic load as a result of the growing pollution of our environment.

In April 2008, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) released a study showing that pet dogs and cats are contaminated with many of the same industrial chemicals found in people, and often at much higher levels. Analysis of blood and urine from 20 dogs and 37 cats showed contamination with 48 of 70 industrial chemicals investigated; 43 chemicals were at levels higher than those typically found in people. While the health risk to pets for most of the chemicals tested have not been studied, they have been linked to serious health risks in humans.

The study looked at levels of bisphenol A, heavy metals (mercury and lead), fire retardants (polybrominated diphenyl ethers or PBDEs), and stain- and grease-proof coatings (perfluorochemicals or PFCs).

Dog samples contained:

• 35 chemicals in total

• 11 carcinogens

• 31 chemicals toxic to the reproductive system

• 24 neurotoxins

Cat samples contained:

• 46 chemicals in total

• 9 carcinogens

• 34 neurotoxins

• 40 chemicals toxic to the reproductive system

• 15 chemicals toxic to the endocrine system

Compared to average levels found in humans in studies by the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the EWG, PFC levels were 2.4 times higher in dogs, PBDEs were 23 times higher in cats, and mercury levels were more than five times that found in humans.

This was the first study of its kind in animals, and it provides alarming and valuable insight into chronic, low level exposure to toxins not only for pets but also for humans, especially the most vulnerable: babies and children.

This is even more alarming when we consider that these numbers represent a tiny fraction of more than 80,000 chemicals that have been introduced. Only a small percentage have been tested for safety and, of course, no studies have been undertaken to assess the health effects when hundreds or thousands of these compounds come together in the environment.

Most veterinarians agree that they have seen a disturbing rise in the incidence of chronic disease in animals in the last 30 years, particularly cancer, autoimmune disease and "new" or previously rare illnesses. I believe that this is related to two major factors: a toxic load that is overwhelming the natural capacity of the body to process and eliminate toxins, and food sources that no longer provide adequate, high-quality nutrients that the body can absorb and use.

The regulatory system of protection for people is weak and incomplete, but it is even more inadequate for pets. Acting on the Precautionary Principle, we can take steps now to protect our pets rather than waiting for scientific proof that chronic low level toxin exposure and poor nutrition is undermining health and vitality.

Our pets are exposed to toxins every day from a variety of sources. These include food, water, indoor air, household cleaning products, pet care (and our own personal care) products, toys, treats and bedding. All this before they even get outside!

Best selling author David Bach, of The Latte Factor fame, relates how he was inspired to write Go Green, Live Rich. He moved into a "green" apartment building simply because of its location, not because of its green credentials. Within a few weeks his allergies disappeared, he was off his prescription medications, his son's mild asthma was gone and they were sleeping longer and more soundly. As he gradually made more changes, he also found, to his delight, that he was saving money.

The problem may seem daunting and overwhelming but don't be daunted. Start by changing to a high quality, natural and preferably organic pet food, with minimal additives and processing. Next, provide a source of clean, filtered, un-bottled water. By gradually adding small changes, we can make a huge difference not only in the toxic burden, health and longevity of our animal friends, but also for ourselves, our families and the environment.