10 Ways to Care for the Planet While Caring for Your Pet
- Use biodegradable poop bags
There’s nothing like the smell of fresh poop in the morning. But instead of using plastic bags that take years to decompose, opt for biodegradable poop bags. Your nose, your pet and the planet will thank you. They’re also affordable and easy to find online.
- Get a doggy bike trailer
Do you love to bike but feel guilty leaving your dog at home? Get a doggy bike trailer! You can ride together and reduce your carbon footprint while getting some great exercise. Why not try riding to the dog park instead of driving there!
- Grow your own catnip
Cat owners, listen up! Instead of buying catnip from the store, why not grow your own? It’s easy, fun, and saves you money. The plant thrives in the warmth so it’s best to get planting in spring or summer but if you’re in the tropical or subtropical regions of Australia you can still get away with growing catnip in autumn.
- Clean as you walk
Exercise is important for both you and your pet, but why not make it eco-friendly? While walking your dog (or very active cat) bring a spare rubbish bag and pick up rubbish as you go. Not only will this help preserve the beautiful path you walk along but it will also make you look (and feel) like a total eco warrior.
- Adopt, don’t shop
When looking for a new furry friend, consider adopting from a shelter or rescue organisation. You’ll be saving a life and reducing the demand for puppy mills.
- Donate old pet items
If your pet has outgrown their toys or no longer uses their bed, don’t throw them away! Donate them to a local shelter or rescue organisation. Beds especially can get expensive for rescue organisations to buy brand new and we all know some of our most picky furry friends all have that one bed they avoid at all costs for no good reason – why not donate it!
- Teach your pet to turn off the lights
Okay, this one might be a little challenging, but imagine if your pet could turn off the lights when they leave a room? That’s one way to reduce your electricity bill and save the planet.
- Feed your pets responsibly
If you’re feeling adventurous, why not make your pet’s food from scratch? You’ll know exactly what’s in it and it’ll reduce the packaging waste from store-bought food. This is a great way to cater to your pets’ particular breed or nutritional needs.
- Avoid over consumption
There are many days of the year we may want to spoil our pets with plastic toys but consider pampering them with a range of different gifts that won’t just end up in landfill one day. What about a walk in a new place, spoiling them with some extra special treats or throwing them a birthday party where they get to play with all their furry friends.
- Upcycle old fabric into pet accessories
Textiles are quickly becoming some of the biggest contributors to landfill, so instead of throwing that old t-shirt in the bin, make a tug of war toy out of it by knotting it with some other old shirts. You can also donate old towels or sheets to your dog’s bed for them to cuddle up in. Tired of that pair of jeans? I know just the cat that’s been itching to scratch on them since you bought them! Get creative and have fun with this one.
