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.

Many of us have given up drinking water and other beverages from reusable plastic cups, and it's also a good idea to give your pets water from a non-porous container. Instead of plastic water bowls, consider stainless steel. Plastic deteriorates over time and gets both large and microscopic scratches. Even with frequent washing, these scratches can become a breeding ground for bacterial growth. Plus, as plastic ages, it dissolves slowly into the water, which ends up in your pet's digestive system. Another bonus of stainless steel: It's recyclable in your curbside recycling.

When you see frying pans, kitchen utensils and even knives labeled as "dishwasher-safe" on the packaging or online, be sure to look at the fine print. Yes, they are technically dishwasher safe, but only if you use limited cycles and not the full automatic cycles most of us choose. If separating your real dishwasher-safe items from your partially dishwasher-safe items sounds like a hassle, just do the next-best thing: Wash what you suspect isn't dishwasher safe by hand. Use your dishwasher (which is water- and energy-efficient) for more durable items like plates, cups and glasses, and protect your pricey pots, pans and knives by scrubbing them by hand.