Updated to add updated eco-friendly cleaning product links
At Fetch The Sun, we're full of ideas for making our planet happier! We've made some big changes to be more eco-conscious – from introducing sustainable materials into our apparel production and reducing energy use to giving recycled packaging a second chance. Every step counts in doing good - because brighter days mean better ones. And protecting the planet has an added bonus - more chances to hit up those incredible outdoor adventures with our furry four-legged best friends!
Eco-Friendly Pet Products and Options for Dog Owners
Doing your part for the environment is easy and rewarding and as pet owners, we can make small changes in our daily lives that can contribute to protecting Mother Earth. Here are some simple eco-friendly pet products and options for pet owners that can make a real difference in our planet's future.
Clean Up With Your Dog
Looking for something to do on a weekend with your dog? Well, you should check out our Dog Adventure Guide because we cover tons of outdoor activities you and your pup can get into! But in addition to that, you can check out when the next beach, trail, park, etc... cleanup is happening in your area and see if it's dog-friendly. This is the perfect chance to get out, enjoy nature, and help keep your beloved outdoor spaces clean. Plus, it's a great way to give back to your community while spending quality time with your pup! Just remember to bring plenty of bags and have fun!
The Surfrider Foundation just had a beach cleanup at Ocean Beach Dog Beach and a few months ago, they had one at Del Mar Dog Beach. Check out all the junk they cleaned up at OB Dog Beach! With chapters spread throughout the country, chances are you have one close to you. Check them out to get signed up for a cleanup near you. In addition to beach cleanups, you can check your local municipality’s website to see when your favorite trail’s or park’s next cleanup will be.
Plant a Plant
Add some plants and shrubs in your garden or yard so your pet can enjoy the outdoors while helping scrub some C02. This can also help enrich the soil and provide a natural habitat for helpful insects like bees. Planting native plants is especially beneficial as they are naturally adapted to your local climate and will require less water, fertilizer, and maintenance than non-native plants. However, some caution should be taken when choosing to plant as some may be toxic to pets. Check out this blog post from K9 Of Mine detailing 23 dog-friendly plants for the yard.
Purchase Environmentally-Friendly Pet Food
It's important to purchase pet food that's produced in an environmentally-friendly way. The production process for pet food can have a large impact on the environment, so it is important to choose dog food that's sustainable and produces minimal waste or pollution. For example, look for pet foods made from sustainably-sourced ingredients such as organic vegetables, whole grains, and grass-fed meats. These ingredients are often grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which reduces the amount of pollutants released into the environment. To go a step further, look for pet foods packaged in recyclable materials like paper or cardboard instead of plastic when possible. Doing this helps reduce unnecessary plastic waste and its associated environmental impacts. Finally, seek out brands that are transparent about their production practices and have a commitment to sustainability.
A couple of our favorite eco-friendly pet foods are:
Petaluma
Petaluma is certified B-Company and they are revolutionizing pet nutrition with their planet-friendly products. Their recipes feature plant-based ingredients that require fewer resources, while being baked in a solar powered facility and sourced from organic farms. To top it off, they package using renewable materials!
The Honest Kitchen
Another certified B-Company, The Honest Kitchen has earned the trust of pet owners by offering wholesome and nutritious products. With Global Animal Partnership certified meats, Marine Stewardship Council wild-caught fish, non-GMO verified ingredients, ranch raised beef and free-range poultry - your pet's diet is sure to be a healthy one!
Consult a veterinarian before abruptly changing your pet's diet.
Opt Out of Plastics at Feeding Time
Use stainless steel food and water dishes instead of plastic ones for your pet as many plastics contain dangerous chemicals which could be harmful to animals if ingested. Most stainless steel dishes are dishwasher-safe and can be easily cleaned and disinfected. They also last longer than plastic bowls, making them a cost-effective option in the long run. Additionally, stainless steel is non-porous, which means it doesn't absorb bacteria or odors as easily as plastic does. It's also much more durable than plastic, so it won't crack or break when dropped. Plus, there's no risk of your pet ingesting dangerous chemicals from the material like there is with plastic dishes.
Using stainless steel instead of plastic for pet dishes is a great way to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. Non-recyclable plastics take hundreds of years to degrade, making them an extremely non-sustainable material. On the other hand, stainless steel is 100% recyclable and can be used again and again without losing its quality or performance (no reduction in quality!). This makes it much more environmentally friendly than plastic. Furthermore, because stainless steel is so durable, you won't need to replace your pet's dishes nearly as often, reducing your overall impact on the environment even further.
Utilize Reusable and Biodegradable Poop Bags
Reducing pet waste is an important step in being an environmentally conscious pet owner. One way to do this is by choosing to use biodegradable bags instead of traditional plastic bags when disposing of pet waste. Biodegradable bags are made from plant-based materials that are designed to break down over time, returning the organic matter back into the environment without producing additional pollutants or contributing to the growing plastic problem. Additionally, these bags are often more spacious and easier to use compared to traditional plastic bags, making it a win-win situation.
Doggy Do Good
Doggy Do Good has taken pet waste to the next level - their earth-friendly pet waste bags are Certified Home Compostable, so you can help limit your pup's environmental impact with every poop! What's more, 10% of all proceeds go toward supporting animal rescue organizations.
Donate Old Towels, Blankets, and Pet Toys
By donating your old towels, blankets, and gently used pet toys (see note), you can help provide shelter animals the comfort they deserve. These items are essential to animal shelters in order to keep their furry friends warm and cozy during the cold months. Additionally, these items will help reduce waste and protect our environment by preventing them from ending up in landfills or incinerators. In addition to helping out a good cause, it’s also an opportunity for you to declutter your home and make sure that all of your beloved pets' belongings get put to good use. Your generosity could mean a world of difference for those animals who may not be able to find homes on their own.
Note: Make sure to check with your local animal shelter before donating used pet toys - most happily accept them as long as they are in good shape!
Save the Earth at Bath Time
Keeping your pet fresh and clean doesn't have to be bad for the environment. By using eco-friendly shampoos and conditioners, you can reduce the amount of pollutants entering our waterways! Your pet benefits too—certain natural grooming products are perfect for ensuring your pup's skin stays soft, happy, and hydrated. Reusing towels and gloves isn't only a greener choice, it can even save you money in the long run. Overall, ditching traditional products for their eco-friendly counterparts is one easy step that we can all take to protect the planet (and our pets!).
4-Legger
For a healthy, green alternative we recommend 4-Legger. They are the go-to choice for pet parents who prioritize natural, organic ingredients and sustainable solutions. Their products not only meet but exceed certification standards by holistic veterinarians to keep both your furry family members safe as well as our planet - right down to the soil their plants are grown in and packaging they're shipped with!
WildWash
Another green alternative is UK-based WildWash. They've been crafting luxurious pet shampoos and cosmetics for over a decade. Each product contains an expertly-crafted blend of natural plants, botanicals, and aromatherapeutic essential oils - carefully combined by hand to create pampering products that provide maximum benefits.
Go All-Natural with Cleaning Products
Look for natural, non-toxic cleaning products that are safe to use around pets. Many conventional cleaning products are formulated with chemicals that can be dangerous for your pets. When shopping for natural and nontoxic cleaning products, look for those made from plant-based ingredients like essential oils, baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice and other natural ingredients.
These will not only keep your home clean but also reduce the risk of harm to your pets. Additionally, using natural cleaners may help reduce asthma and allergy symptoms in people with sensitive respiratory systems. Also remember to keep all products out of reach of children and pets. Do some research on the safety of each product before use to ensure it is safe for everyone in your household.
One such cleaning product is Ecos Pet Stain and Odor Remover. It's a powerful plant-based cleaning product and it contains fast-acting enzymes that clean up pretty much any mess from pets on any type of surface. And the lemon smell does not smell like chemicals - an added bonus. Ecos has been perfecting its natural cleaning products for 50 years!
Be Eco-Conscious When Looking for Other Pet Supplies
Dog toys, harnesses, and clothing can all be found in eco-friendly, sustainable options. Look for items made from recycled materials that are designed to last longer so you can reduce the amount of waste in our landfills. Additionally, there are many pet beds and crates made from non-toxic, biodegradable materials like sea grass, hemp or organic cotton. These make great replacement items for old, worn-out plastics or metals.
West Paw makes some incredible dog toys that are eco-friendly. And don't forget to check out our super soft and comfy Fetch The Sun shirts made with organic cotton - it's a paw-some way to show off your bond with your furry best friend!
Little Steps Make a Huge Difference
Creating an eco-friendly home for you and your pet doesn't have to be difficult or expensive. With just a few simple changes you can make a positive impact on both their health and the environment. From switching to natural cleaning products, planting dog-friendly plants in the yard, opting for stainless steel dishes over plastic ones at feeding time, and even going out on a cleanup mission together - there are plenty of ways you can help create an environmentally conscious household that everyone will benefit from. It may take time, but little by little each step you take will help make the world a better place for both you and your pet. So get started today and make sure to have fun in the process!
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