The movement to “go green” is only getting stronger. But how do you live more sustainably or being Eco-Friendly when you have a dog? We’ve got some great tips and tricks just for you!
How Can I Be Eco-Friendly with My Dog?
As pet parents, there are certain things you do for your pup to take care of them. But we may not always think about how those things affect the environment. There are simple steps you can take to make your home more sustainable and eco-friendly while having a dog.
Eco-Friendly Pet Cleaning Products
All cleaning products are not created equally. We all know that cleaning supplies are a must—especially when you have a dog… or three! And if you have kids on top of that, you’ll definitely need the help of some strong cleaning products! But believe it or not, there are eco-friendly cleaning supplies, and even non-toxic, organic dog shampoos.
Environmentally-conscious companies do exist—like Mrs. Meyer’s, Seventh Generation, and BlueLand—who offer safer cleaning options that are free from harmful toxins. These products will be safe for your pups, your kids, and you!
You can use dog poop bags that are 100% biodegradable, and whose packaging is made from recycled materials like the company Doggy Do Good. And if you’re looking for an organic dog shampoo, you use brands like 4-Legger. Now you can feel even better about the products you’re putting on your dog’s skin.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Pet Toys & Supplies
Pet toys and supplies might not be a category you would typically think of when trying to “go green” with your pooch. But think about all of the plastic toys and dog bowls that end up in landfills each year.
One way to help this issue is by shopping with companies like WestPaw and Harry Barker. These are both eco-friendly companies that make sustainable dog toys and supplies out of recycled materials, and without any harmful toxins.
Another way to live more sustainably with your dog is by following the old motto of “renew, reuse, recycle.” If you want to help keep toys out of landfills, take a little trip over to Goodwill or any other local thrift shop. They will have tons of perfectly fine, but gently used stuffed animals that can be tossed in the washing machine, and then reused as dog toys! If your dog is just going to tear it apart anyway, why buy new when you can renew?
Waste Less Water
When it comes to bath time, consider using the shower head or a pitcher of water, rather than filling up the entire bathtub. This will save many gallons of water. Just keep in mind—some dogs don’t like being sprayed or poured on with water. So you’ll need to take your time, and be patient with them.
And if you’re thinking about fun water activities like swimming… consider taking your dog to a natural body of water, rather than filling up that kiddy pool. But remember to spray off or bathe your dog after using a lake or a pool, and wipe down any sensitive areas with a baby wipe. This is the best way to avoid any unwanted infections.
Adopt a Pet
Another great way to help our environment is by adopting the puppies and kittens that are already alive! There are more than enough dogs, cats, and other small pets at animal rescues, shelters, and humane societies needing a new forever home. There’s no need to spend hundreds or even thousands of dollars on breeding new animals. Let’s focus on the pets who are already alive.
You can check out the available pets at shelters and rescues near you on PetFinder.com. Search for pets by species, gender, age, and even breed mix. You’ll be able to see pictures and a description of the pets available in your area based on your search.
Spay and Neuter
If you aren’t planning on breeding your precious pets, it’s important to consider having them spayed or neutered. There is an overwhelming problem with the overpopulation of pets in the United States. And this is one of the biggest factors that leads to cats, dogs, and other small animals ending up at shelters, rescues, and humane societies.
To help avoid this problem altogether, make sure to ask your vet about spaying and neutering, and about the appropriate age for your dog or cat. You may be saving an animal from an undesired outcome.
What is the Environmental Impact of Owning a Dog?
Your environmental impact can be as big or as small as you let it be. These are all simple tips to help our environment. And they are all easy to do, and easy not to do. It’s always your choice. But remember—every little step, decision, and choice makes a difference.
