How to reduce your pooch’s carbon paw print

With an increasing number of people becoming environmentally conscious, there is little wonder that several measures are being taken to bring down the global pollution levels. From making changes in our homes to modifying our lifestyle to better suit the planet, we are slowly but surely going all out to do what needs to be done to support our environment.

However, in trying to save the environment and reducing our own carbon footprint, we forget that our pets generate it too. That’s right, even your cute little pooch is contributing to environmental degradation in his own special way. In fact, scientists in New Zealand have claimed “pets have a carbon footprint that is about twice the size of the gas guzzling vehicles.”

As pet lovers, we love pampering our animal companions by showering them with various things. But as eco-friendly citizens, we also need to realize that these items could be wreaking havoc on our planet’s health.

There are certain changes that you as a responsible pet owner can make to reduce your pet pooch’s carbon paw print.

Adopt a Pet

Consider adopting a pet instead of buying one from a pet store or approaching breeders. By doing so, you not only save a life and avoid questionable breeding, but also dodge the environmental effects of brining another life into the world.

According to the Humane Society of United States, about 6 million cats and dogs are cared for by animal shelters, out of which about 3 – 4 million are euthanized every year. By adopting a pet from such shelters you will fulfil your wish of having a pet, as well as reduce the stress that dogs place on the environment.

Use Biodegradable Doggie Bags

As adorable as they are, pets also create a mess. And whether they are potty trained or not, you will have to do the job of cleaning up after them every time they poop. Obviously you’re not going to clean it with your bare hands (strictly unadvised), so you may try and use a plastic bag to get rid of it. That’s where the trouble is.

Plastic bags are non-biodegradable and hence cause a lot of harm to the environment. They do not decompose easily, and even if they do, they release harmful substances into the environment.

A lot of modern pet stores now sell biodegradable doggie bags, which can be chosen over plastic ones.

Consider Feeding Him Organic Food

If your budget allows, pick organic fare for your mutt instead of regular dog food which may not be produced in an eco-friendly way, and has to be shipped from several miles to get to your door.

Many a time, it is manufactured using cheap-quality ingredients which are low in nutrients. It is better to buy natural, locally-sourced dog food, or make it on your own with the help of a vet, or even look up recipes over the Internet.

Organic food is free of chemicals and added hormones, which is better for your dog as well as the environment. Apart from that, you can feed him chicken or rabbit-based kibble instead of beef, as the former have a lower environmental impact compared to the latter.

Use Stainless Steel Bowls

Do you find yourself purchasing new food and water bowls for your dog very often? Does he like to chew on his plastic bowls at every given opportunity? Then it’s time to do something about it. Ditch plastic and say hello to stainless steel.

Bid adieu to those cheap plastic bowls and dishes, shell out a few extra bucks and buy stainless steel or ceramic bowls for a more long-term solution. This way you reduce plastic pollution as well as provide your dog with a healthier alternative, as unlike plastic, stainless steel and ceramic do not leak harmful chemicals into your dog’s food or water.

Buy Recycled Toys

Contrary to popular belief, dogs are not as fussy about toys as we think. They are happy with any toy that will allow them to chew and play with it. With that thought in mind, you need to exercise caution with the toys you let him play with.

Pick dog toys and accessories made from recycled materials. You could also repurpose another intact item at home or put your DIY skills to use to make your dog a few eco-friendly toys. And why stop at toys, when you can extend those skills to making a comfortable dog bed using biodegradable materials such as bamboo and wool?

Clean With Natural Shampoo

Instead of choosing chemical-based soaps and shampoos for your dog, it is better to go for those manufactured using natural, eco-friendly ingredients. Make sure the products you use are cruelty-free.

This also applies to the products you use to clean after your pet at home.

Use Non-toxic Flea and Tick Treatments

Most tick and flea treatments are chemical-based. Say no to those and look for non-toxic and pesticide-free repellents for your dog. Make it a point to read the product label before purchasing the repellant. If you have doubts about certain contents, feel free to clarify with your dog’s vet.

Make Your Own Litter

It may be a good idea to use old newspapers and other useless papers in place of purchased litter. This will help you recycle as well as save money. Alternatively, you can also buy recycled, biodegradable litter instead of the conventional thing.

Spay or Neuter Your Pet

It is safe to assume that the world does not need any more dogs than it already has. Animal overpopulation has major environmental implications and it is, therefore, best to spay or neuter him or her. There are several programs that offer this service at a low cost.

Conclusion

By making responsible and informed choices, we can help resurrect Mother Nature. Every small thing can make a difference for the better. So make sure you do your bit by keeping the above tips in mind and reduce your pet’s paw print.