The environmentally conscious dog owner’s manual

My dog Daisy goes green on her chaise lounge from Doctor's Foster and Smith. The bed's filling is made of recycled soda bottles. Doctor's Foster and Smith carries a variety of "eco-friendly" items at http://www.doctorsfostersmith.com.

With all the hype around going green today, many people have forgotten that our furry friends can play a vital role in helping to save the planet. Below are some tips on how to go green with Spot.

Pick up the poo

By leaving your dog’s excretions on the ground, you are not only asking for a poor soul to step in doggy doo, but you are not being a very good steward to the earth. The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has classified pet waste as a pollutant that can contribute to the degradation of human and environmental health when it enters the local watersheds as a result of storm water runoff. Some of the bacteria that can be found in doggy doo includes E. coli, fecal coliform bacteria, salmonella and giardia.

Feeling guilty about using a plastic bag to pick up that poop? There are a number of companies that sell biodegradable bags for the environmentally conscious pet owner. Try BioBag USA or PoopBags.com, or check out the offerings at your local pet store.

Give fido an eco-friendly toy

Many companies now offer eco-friendly versions of their dog toys. West Paw Design sells 100% recyclable toys that use fabric and stuffing made from recycled soda pop bottles. If you are a little more ambitious, you can try making your own dog toy.

Everything else

From sustainable dog sweaters, to organic pet food or an eco-friendly dog house (the first dog has one!) there is no real limit on helping your dog go green. Just do a little research, be creative and have fun!

One response to “The environmentally conscious dog owner’s manual

  1. great tips! i just got a puppy & this helped me learn 🙂

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