It's so easy being green

Acres Animal Hospital in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, has found a way to help both the practice and its clients see green. "To help our clients think about recycling, we offer a pill vial credit to clients whose pets take chronic medications," says Dr. Laura Lee. "Clients receive a $1 credit toward the cost of their refill for each used pill vial they return. The credit only applies to vials used for the same medication."

A veterinary assistant or volunteer then removes old labels and cleans and disinfects vials that are in good shape. "I know it costs us more to reuse the pill vials than to use a new vial each time, but it helps keep a little more plastic out of the landfills. And clients appreciate the chance to help recycle and receive a small break on the cost of their pets' chronic medications," Dr. Lee says.