We take care to make sure the food we serve our family is properly stored to ensure freshness and safety, but have you thought about taking those same steps to protect your dog's food, too? Bagged dry dog food should stay in the bag since the bags are designed as a "fat barrier" to help protect flavor and freshness for an extended period of time. Storing dog food outdoors or in the garage is not recommended since hot temperatures can degrade any vitamins in the food and it can spoil. One last tip: Store dog food off the ground to deter rodents.

A reusable water bottle is a great way to ditch disposable plastic bottles and help the environment. But did you know it's imperative to rinse the bottle every day? Just like a coffee mug, utensils or a plate, a reusable bottle (and the lid) should be rinsed with hot, soapy water. If you don't wash it, you risk having harmful bacteria grow inside, which can make you sick. If you are using a reusable bottle at the office and don't have time to rinse it, try this one trick: Leave it in the fridge. A refrigerated bottle won't have the warmth to grow germs and bacteria overnight.

Most wildlife experts agree that feeding wild animals is not only unnecessary, but could be harmful, since those animals can lose their ability to forage for food. One way to help these animals is to provide them with a source of water, especially during drought conditions or the harsh winter months. A small birdbath or a large container of water on the ground can be a lifesaver. Just be sure to regularly replenish the water and keep it away from bushes, where predators could attack. If you plan to offer water to birds and wildlife in the winter months, invest in a small heating device designed for birdbaths; it'll keep the water thawed just enough for them to enjoy a good drink.