After reading this post, don't forget to enter our contest – you could win a new dishwasher. Plus, do you have your own story to tell? Send it to greenchallenge@canadianliving.com (no more than 300 words, please), and you could win one of 30 daily prizes. Have you ever considered the environmental impact of owning pets? They consume food, water and accessories (toys, leashes, etc.), and then there's the cost of where they were born and raised before you got them. This isn't to say you shouldn't have pets. But it's another area of your lifestyle that can be examined for the potential to make greener choices. Here are a few suggestions. • Choose eco-friendly pet food. Buy organic if you can, and watch for excess packaging. Recycle those cans! • Reduce. Yes, your pet is an important part of the family, but he doesn't understand – or need – birthday cards or wrapped gifts under the Christmas tree. Keep him happy with the odd new toy or treat, but don't overdo it. • Spay or neuter your pet. Don't contribute to the overpopulation of cats and dogs. How green are your pets? What are some suggestions you have to make their lives more eco-friendly? Today's code word: pets Read more: • Photo gallery: Canada's cutest pets 2008 • How to make your pet more eco-friendly • Making your own pet food