How to be an Eco-Conscious Pet Parent

If you are like most pet parents, you put a lot of effort into buying food and supplies that will keep your pet happy and healthy. There are plenty of products on the market that will do just that – but they aren’t always created equal. Unfortunately, some products that seem healthy and eco-friendly at first glance are not as good as the packaging may lead you to believe. 

Manufacturers often opt for lower quality materials to save money, meaning that products they claim are healthy could do more harm than good – and not just to your pet. Cheaply made products that negatively impact your pet’s health could also take a toll on the environment.

Fortunately, there are plenty of products out there that are good for both your pet and the environment. Read on to discover three tips for buying eco-friendly pet products that will keep your pet feeling their best.

Be an Eco-Conscious Pet Parent and Buy Natural or Organic Pet Food

When shopping for pet food, be on the lookout for anything labeled “natural” or “organic.” While this doesn’t guarantee that a bag of pet food is the healthiest option, it does indicate that it will only contain ingredients from pet-safe plants, animals, and mined sources. Organic pet foods are also produced without artificial pesticides and fertilizers, meaning that they don’t contribute as much to agricultural runoff and pollution.

Look for Eco-Friendly Toys and Supplies

If your pet is a chewer, it can be tempting to buy cheaper toys and supplies that are easy to replace. However, cheap plastic toys and food bowls can contain chemicals that are potentially harmful when ingested, and plastics typically end up in landfills or waterways after you throw them away.

To avoid toys and supplies that could harm your pet and the environment, consider products made from the following materials:

• Stainless steel: Food and water bowls made from stainless steel are more durable than plastic, and they are typically recyclable.
• Bamboo: Bamboo is durable and cost-effective, and it is much more sustainable than most synthetic materials.
• Organic or biodegradable materials: Pet toys made from organic or biodegradable materials are safer for your pets and have a lower environmental impact than those made from plastics.

Buy High-Quality Bedding

Pet bedding comes in a variety of materials, and it can be difficult to tell which options are best if you don’t know what to look for. Before buying a new pet bed, you should always check the tag to determine which materials it is made of. Synthetic materials can harm your pet if ingested, and their production process is terrible for the environment. The same is true for materials treated with odor-eliminating chemicals.

Instead of shopping synthetic, try opting for bedding made from organic cotton or recycled materials. These have a lower carbon footprint, and they are much safer for your pet.

Whether your furry friend loves nature as much as you do or prefers lounging indoors, there are plenty of environmentally friendly products out there for them to love. Next time you head to the pet store, take this printable green-essentials checklist with you to make your shopping trip easier and help you become a more eco-conscious pet parent.