How To Be an Eco-friendly Dog Owner?

With nearly 77 million pet dogs in the U.S., our furry friends have a significant environmental impact. But being a dog parent doesn’t mean you can’t also be eco-friendly. Here’s how you can make more sustainable choices for your pup and the planet:

1. Pick Sustainable Dog Food

Dog food is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. While dogs need meat, animal agriculture produces a lot of methane and uses tons of water. Here are some tips to make your dog's diet more sustainable:

• Opt for Sustainable Meat Sources or Plant-Based Options: Talk to your vet about incorporating sustainable meat sources or even plant-based options into your dog’s diet. There are many high-quality, balanced dog foods that use less environmentally damaging proteins.
• Choose Dog Foods with Fewer Red Meats: Red meats like beef and lamb have a higher environmental impact compared to poultry or fish. Look for dog foods that emphasize chicken, turkey, or fish.
• Try Innovative Options like Cricket-Based Dog Food: Some companies are now making dog food using crickets, which are a sustainable protein source. It might sound strange, but crickets are high in protein and have a much smaller environmental footprint.
• Avoid Overfeeding: Not only does overfeeding lead to obesity, but it also increases the demand for food production. Measure your dog’s food carefully to reduce waste and keep your pup healthy.

2. Dispose of Dog Waste Responsibly

Dog poop is a significant pollutant. Here’s how you can dispose of it more responsibly:

• Never Leave It on the Ground: Always pick up after your dog to prevent environmental contamination and the spread of disease.
• Use Compostable Bags: While compostable bags are better than plastic, they can still pose issues in landfills. Make sure to dispose of them properly.
• Check Local Regulations for Green Bin Disposal: Some areas allow pet waste in green bins that go to industrial composting facilities. Check your local guidelines.
• Flush Dog Poop Down the Toilet: If it’s allowed in your area, flushing dog poop (without bags) is a good option. Just make sure your plumbing can handle it.
• Look for Dog-Waste Disposal Services or DIY Composting Options: Some companies offer dog waste disposal services, or you can set up your own composting system at home. Just make sure to do it safely and correctly.

3. Use Non-Toxic Grooming Products and Medications

Many dog shampoos and flea treatments contain harmful chemicals. Here’s how to switch to safer alternatives:

• Biodegradable, Organic Shampoos: Choose dog shampoos made from natural, organic ingredients that are biodegradable. They’re better for your dog’s skin and the environment.
• Vet-Recommended Flea and Tick Treatments: In high-risk areas, opt for flea and tick treatments recommended by your vet. Look for products that are effective but also have a lower environmental impact.

4. Make Dog Treats at Home

Homemade dog treats are a great way to reduce packaging waste and control the ingredients your dog consumes. Plus, it’s a fun activity! Here are some ideas:

• Use Plant-Based Recipes: Ingredients like nut butters, apples, pumpkins, and oats are perfect for making tasty and nutritious dog treats.
• Reduce Packaging Waste: Making treats at home cuts down on the plastic and other packaging materials that store-bought treats often come with.

5. Choose Eco-Friendly Dog Toys

Plastic dog toys can be harmful to both the environment and your dog. Instead, opt for these alternatives:

• Toys Made from Natural Materials: Look for toys made from hemp, natural rubber, bamboo, or canvas. These materials are more sustainable and safer for your dog.
• DIY Toys from Household Items: Get creative and make toys from items you already have at home. Old T-shirts, towels, or socks can be repurposed into fun and eco-friendly dog toys.

💡 Bonus Tip: Biodegradable Poop Bags!

In addition to making eco-friendly choices at home, we're proud to introduce our new 100% cornstarch poo bags.

Every year, over 100 million plastic dog waste bags end up in landfills, taking thousands of years to decompose. Our cornstarch bags, on the other hand, decompose in just 90 days, leaving zero waste behind.

They're organic, eco-friendly, and just as durable and leak-proof as their plastic counterparts. By choosing these bags, you're not only ensuring a cleaner environment for future generations but also reducing the amount of plastic waste that harms our wildlife.

By making these simple changes, you can significantly reduce your dog’s environmental footprint and help protect the planet.

Aside from becoming a eco-friendly dog owner, you need to make sure your dog's harness is designed for comfort, safety, and durability, it’s the perfect addition to your sustainable pet care routine. Head to JoyrideHarness.com to learn more and make a positive impact today!

Source: American Kennel Club