With Earth Day approaching on April 22nd, we’d love to share a few simple and easy eco-friendly pet swaps that are better for your pets and the environment! 🌎🐾
Swap #1:
Cat and dog food account for more than 25% of meat consumption in the U.S., and most aren’t ethical or sustainable. Try looking for pet food brands that use organic, non-GMO ingredients and sustainable packaging. Click here to see a list of brands that source their product ethically.
Swap #2:
Another easy swap to make is using compostable or biodegradable poop bags. If you want to take it a step further (and save some money!) consider reusing and repurposing items you may have lying around, such as plastic bags from the grocery store, a bread bag, or even newspaper.
Swap #3:
Clay cat litter is a big offender on the list of non-eco-friendly pet products because it is non-renewable and creates mining runoff. Plus, it can be harmful to your kitty’s digestive tract if ingested. Biodegradable, plant-based litters, such as litter made from wheat, corn, pine, or recycled paper, may cost a bit more, but they are more absorbent, longer lasting, and virtually mess-free, which means you’ll spend less time sweeping the floor and wiping loose litter off the bottoms of your feet. (We’ve all been there!)
Swap #4:
Many dog toys are made of plastic or vinyl. Consider switching to toys made from recycled materials like ropes, natural rubber, or organic fabrics. They’re safer, more durable, and give new life to old materials. There are pet toy brands, such as West Paw, who’ve made it their mission to ensure all of their toys are responsibly made. If you purchase a toy from this company in particular, you can send it back once your dog has thoroughly loved and chewed on it! They will sanitize, grind up, and make a whole new toy from it.
Swap #5:
Grooming supplies may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking about which pet products to swap out for a more eco-friendly version. Most pet stores carry plant-derived, fragrance-free shampoos and sprays without any harsh chemicals or dyes which are better for the environment (and your pet!). An easy way to spot these products is to look for USDA Organic and EPA Safer Choice labels on the grooming supplies you purchase.
Swap #6:
The final and easiest tip we’d like to share is to keep in mind that most pet accessories and gear can likely be recycled or donated to a local shelter once your pet has outgrown them. Whether it’s a harness, collar, bed, bowl, or crate, there are plenty of pets in need who could use a hand-me-down!
We hope this list of small, manageable, eco-friendly swaps helps you consider your options. By being more mindful of the products we’re buying, we can reduce our carbon footprints and make Earth a healthier place for each other and our pets! 
