Paws Off Plastic: Webinar Sheds Light on Hidden Dangers to Pets

 

The latest installment of the popular Sustain Session webinar series, titled “Sustain Session 3.1: Paws Off Plastic : Protect Our Pets from Plastic,” was successfully conducted online, drawing attention to the often overlooked threat that plastic poses to pet health.

 

The session, held via Zoom, featured a keynote address by Dr. Keshan Jayawardana is a renowned veterinary surgeon from the University of Peradeniya. In his informative and eye opening presentation, Dr. Jayawardana discussed the various ways in which common plastic items such as food bowls, chew toys, and household packaging can harm pets. He emphasized that ingestion of plastics and exposure to toxic additives and microplastics can lead to serious health complications, including digestive issues and hormonal imbalances.

 

“Many pet owners unknowingly expose their animals to harmful substances through everyday items made of plastic,” Dr. Jayawardana explained. “The effects may not be immediate, but long-term exposure can significantly impact pet health.”

 

The webinar also featured a short awareness video that illustrated real-life examples of plastic-related pet injuries and illnesses while offering practical guidance on choosing safer, environmentally friendly alternatives. Attendees were then invited to take part in a live Q&A session, where Dr. Jayawardana addressed concerns ranging from sustainable pet toys to safe food storage practices.

 

By the end of the session, participants had gained valuable insights into how to better protect their pets and contribute to reducing plastic use in their homes.

 

As plastic continues to permeate daily life, initiatives like “Paws Off Plastic” play a vital role in educating the public, fostering responsible ownership, and promoting a healthier environment for both animals and humans.