We know good dog food can cost you some green.
We even know that dogs can glow green with jealousy if not getting enough attention.
But what's less obvious is how you, as an earth-conscience dog owner, can help ensure you are as environmentally "green" as possible when it comes to raising your pup.
It doesn't have to be an enormous effort on your part to green up your practices and become a more earth-friendly dog owner. Simple eco-friendly initiatives work too! So, in honor of Earth Day (April 22nd), we've listed six simple ways to reduce your carbon paw-print!
How to Be a More Environmentally-Friendly Dog Owner
1. Go bulk. When you can, buy dog treats and food in bulk, to help cut down on packaging waste. In addition, try to avoid foods and treats with pesticides, opting for more natural ingredients.
2. Start cooking. Another alternative to natural dog food is preparing and cooking your own dog food. Making your own dog food is healthier, can cost less than some organic dog food blends, and cuts down on packaging waste. You can also make other homemade dog products, like dog toys and dog shampoo. Click to find out more about homemade dog food.
3. Pick up. Dog waste is bad for the environment and litters our trails. It is important to pick up after your Rad Dog on the trail, but you could be doing a lot of environmental damage with the types of waste bags you use, too. Opting for a plant-based dog waste bags is an easy way to green up your pick up routine.
4. Search the shelter. Finding a home for a shelter dog isn't just good philanthropy, it's eco-friendly too! By choosing a shelter dog, you are making more room in our shelters, discouraging the mistreatment of animals, and helping maintain a healthy pet population of spayed, neutered and immunized dogs.
5. Lasting products. Purchasing quality product that last means less consumerism, less packaging, fewer natural resources, and less money! The Rad Dog Release 'N Run is the perfect example of a lasting product where less is more. One purchase, one package and you get a long-lasting leash AND collar in one. And, because it's made with Cordura® climbing webbing and Spectra® cord (one of the world's strongest and lightest fibers), the Release 'N run is strong enough for dogs weighing up to 110lbs. The internal retracting mechanism, originally designed for extended use in salt water by scuba divers and for the tethering of tools and weapons for the police and military, has been designed for maximum strength and durability. This means you get a quality, long-lasting product you may never have to replace.
6. Respect the outdoors. Keeping your dog on-trail means that there is no opportunity for them to disrupt fragile plant and animal life. There is nothing greener than enjoying the outdoors, but dogs and owners alike must do it with respect for our precious outdoors.
Just a few simple steps in the right direction, and you and your dog can dramatically reduce your carbon paw print this Earth Day!
