As pet owners, we want the best for our furry companions. We want to feed them healthy food, give them plenty of exercise, and keep them safe and happy. With so many choices available, it can be difficult to keep sustainability in mind when making decisions about our pets. Fortunately, there are a number of ways to make your pet care routine more eco-friendly and environmentally sustainable.
From biodegradable toys to sustainable food and treats, the market for eco-friendly pet products is growing. Companies such as Open Farm and The Honest Kitchen have set out to provide high-quality products that are both environmentally friendly and safe for pets. Garrett Wymore and Caroline Buck created their company Petaluma in 2019 after “struggling to find dog nutrition that equally prioritized their pets and the planet.” (Forbes) As one of the industry’s pioneers, they aim to set a new standard for pet food, one that considers the planet as a stakeholder. It is their mission to revolutionize the industry by introducing plant-based pet food and treats that are both nutritionally balanced and crafted with a low carbon footprint.
When choosing to purchase food or other items for your pet, look to see if the brand uses natural, non-GMO, ethically-sourced ingredients. Beginners Tip: Look at the list of ingredients — if you can’t say it, take heed! Invest the time to look at the product’s packaging, consider the energy needed to produce it, and research whether it’s biodegradable or can be recycled. Check out this list for an excellent list of sustainable products.
Pet waste is a major source of pollution, so it's important to dispose of it properly. Many cities have curbside recycling programs for pet waste, or you can compost it at home. The USDA has published this guide about composting pet waste safely. When waste is left on the ground, organisms and parasites can leak into the soil and contaminate groundwater. Even when bagged up and disposed of, this waste still ends up in landfill, producing the greenhouse gas methane, which is 20 times more powerful than carbon dioxide. This article is a great resource for more information.
When your pet outgrows their toys or beds, donate them to a local animal shelter or rescue organization. Many local organizations are happy to accept donations of gently used pet supplies, unexpired food, toys, and bedding. Organizations like the Humane Rescue Alliance have created Pet Pantry programs to equip pet owners in need with food, bedding, toys, and treats for their pets. Benefactors can also donate money to help support these programs, or purchase items off a wishlist of needed items that the organization has created. There are so many ways to help — ask your local shelter how you can get involved!
Most importantly, spay or neuter your pet. This is one of the best ways to reduce pet overpopulation and the environmental impact that comes with it. American Humane currently supports legislation “mandating that all cats and dogs adopted from public or private animal care and control facilities be sterilized.” This results in animal overpopulation, an issue that currently plagues cities and communities across the United States.
By following these tips, you can help to make your pet care routine more eco-friendly and sustainable. And that's good for you, your pet, and the planet.