Whether you’re greeted at the door by a furry four-legged friend or prefer another kind of pet, there’s no denying the importance a pet plays in your life. That’s why you should take special caution to keep your beloved pets out of harm’s way. Here are a few things you might not have even considered that can be harmful to your pet — and healthy alternatives!

Pet Food:

Most good pet owners know that the quality of the pet food you choose can determine your pet’s long-term health. Inexpensive foods can contain animal by-products, chemical additives, fertilizers and more that can be detrimental to your pet’s health. Consider purchasing organic pet food for your critter; Newman’s Own (www.newmansownorganics.com) has a line of pet foods specifically formulated for health — your pet’s and the environment’s. It even eliminates wheat and corn due to their tendency to cause allergies in some dogs and cats.

Insecticides:

If you’ve taken the time to read the back of the can of bug spray, you’ll discover that its contents may be hazardous to your family and especially your pets. Animals’ proximity to where you spray makes it particularly dangerous for them. That’s why companies like EcoSMART (www.ecosmart.com) have created organic, botanical formulas to keep your home pest-free without putting your pet’s health in danger. And, it’s been proven that EcoSMART’s plant oil formulas are both effective and have no known pest resistance. That way, you’ll rid your home of pests safely and effectively.

Additionally, using a product that’s safe for your pets means that you won’t have to find a place to put them after the insecticide is sprayed. Unlike conventional products, you can apply EcoSMART’s botanical products with your pets and family there in the room.

Household Cleaners:

Household cleaners are a particular risk for pets. Unlike humans, pets often have more exposure to these chemicals, even licking or eating off of the surfaces on which harsh cleaners have been used. Similarly, pets have a tendency to eat or drink the things they discover, whether it’s a treat or toilet cleaner.

Seventh Generation (www.seventhgeneration.com) is a company that provides natural alternatives for the household spills and stains that come along with pet ownership without the toxins other cleaners might have. With exciting, unique scents, Seventh Generation products can replace the smell of Fido with smells like lemongrass & Clementine.

Plants:

What’s a green lifestyle without greenery? Be careful, though. A lot of beautiful, ornamental houseplants can be hazardous or even deadly to your pets. By knowing which plants pose a threat, you can easily opt for a more pet-friendly alternative.

Some plants that are toxic to house pets according to the Humane Society of the United States include azaleas, day lilies, English ivy, holly, mistletoe, wisteria, and more. Visit http://www.hsus.org/pets/pet_care/protect_your_pet_from_common_household_dangers/common_poisonous_plants.html for a complete list.