This Earth Day, become an Earth-friendly dog owner by implementing these five practices into your daily routine. While it feels like climate change is out of our control, every little thing we do as global citizens counts. As pet owners, we can all do our part to reduce our carbon footprint and create a brighter future for ourselves and our pets!
Five ways to be an Earth-friendly dog owner
Properly recycle dog food containers
Every city has different recycling standards. But by rinsing dog food cans and plastic packaging, you can greatly increase the chances of your disposables getting recycled. Giving your dog’s wet food can a rinse before recycling is a small but mighty gesture that helps reduce waste.
Go biodegradable!
Choosing biodegradable bags is a major way to reduce your carbon footprint. Instead of plastic bags, try biodegradable bags made from plant starch. Think of all the plastic waste you can reduce over your dog’s lifetime alone!
Don’t toss it, donate
If you want to lighten your load, consider giving old items a second life by donating them! With so many shelters and rescue organizations in need of supplies, it’s way better to donate items rather than tossing them. Los Angeles locals can donate gently-used pet items to Fitdog and we hand them off to Operation Blankets of Love. For readers who don’t live in Southern California, reach out to your local shelter. Chances are, they have zero budget for comfort items and your contribution will be a huge blessing to them!
For inspiration on how to “spark joy” and help dogs in need, check out our guide here!
Choose plastic-free products
The demand for zero-waste living has prompted businesses to provide plastic-free products. Luckily, this includes dog products. Retailers such as The Package Free Shop sell plastic-free pet products, including dog shampoo, toys, and grooming tools. While it may seem like a small gesture, choosing plastic-free products helps to reduce the collective plastic epidemic that affects us all.
Spend time in nature
The best way we can learn to appreciate our planet is by connecting with its natural beauty. Additionally, spending time in nature improves both you and your dog’s health. Take a bike ride over to the park, or venture off to a new trail. There is so much natural beauty to discover, and your dog will appreciate the fresh air and bonding time with you!
Here’s wishing dogs and owners everywhere a happy Earth Day! Please be considerate of our planet and try to practice Earth-consciousness in all your actions.
This post was updated on April 22, 2019.