Really flexing the pet parent game means flexing some next-level sustainability vibes that help protect our planet. Dive into these outside-of-the-box pet activities with your dog or cat, and you'll be not only leveling up your pet's life but also dropping some serious eco-consciousness into your relationship with your pet.
Simple earth-friendly pet activities
Checking labels and thinking mindfully about pet-related choices can quickly reduce waste or support sustainably produced pet products. Here are just a couple to get your mind ticking.
Eco-Friendly Pet Toys
Opt for toys made from sustainable materials like hemp, organic cotton, or recycled materials. These options not only reduce the carbon footprint but also provide safe and durable playthings for your furry friend.
Planet-Friendly DIY Dog Treats
Rather than buying packaged treats, try making your own at home using organic and locally sourced ingredients. Not only does this minimize packaging waste, but it also ensures your dog enjoys healthier snacks.
Save Lives and the Planet Through Pet Adoption
Adopt your next pet from a local shelter or rescue organization. You’ll provide a loving home for a pet in need and also reduce the demand for commercially bred animals raised in large-scale conditions, which can have environmental, behavioral, and inhumane consequences.
Go wild and protect the planet with these unusual pet activities
Plant a Pet-Friendly Garden of Native Plants
Create a garden for you and your pet with pet-friendly native plants. This not only adds a bit of biodiversity to your surroundings but also provides a safe and stimulating environment for your dog. Need some help choosing? Audubon has some help! Choose plants that are non-toxic to animals. I always brush up on my plant knowledge by checking the ASPCA list of toxic plants before I make my spring purchases.
Take Pet-Friendly Public Transportation
Opt for public transportation or pet-friendly rideshare services when traveling with your pet This reduces the carbon footprint associated with individual car travel and helps make sustainable choices in transportation. Beyond helping the planet, you and your pet will be sure to add some smiles to the faces of other passengers.
Walk Your Dog, Pick Up Trash
Train your dog to participate in simple conservation efforts, like picking up litter during walks. It can be confusing to your dog if you are asking them to sit while you hop across a ditch to grab a discarded bottle, so begin slowly by picking up just a few pieces on your daily walk before heading out to clean up an entire trail. I suggest wearing a bright colored vest so other walkers and drivers realize you're up to something more than the average walk!
Sustainable Eco-Friendly Pet Pet Style
Are you and your pet fashionistas? Support eco-friendly pet fashion by avoiding big-box store impulse buys and choosing pet accessories and pet clothing made from sustainable materials like organic cotton or recycled fabrics. Look for brands that prioritize ethical and environmentally responsible production practices to ensure your pet's wardrobe has a minimal ecological footprint. The Sofa City Sweethearts line of plastic ID tags are produced with a plant-based, eco-friendly and biodegradable plastic material. So you can feel good about what your pet is wearing WHILE keeping them safe.
Community Garden Pet Etiquette
Collaborate with local community gardens and parks to create pet-friendly and pet-smart spaces that protect or create wild habitat. Maybe you can sponsor a dog clean-up station or an educational sign about wildlife behavior or the importance of keeping pets leashed. I love that community garden and park spaces not only enhance the neighborhood but also help promote community responsibility for the care of our lands.
What can you do to reduce your carbon pawprint?
Being a conscious pet parent involves making mindful choices that extend beyond typical sustainability practices. By embracing even just one or two of these unusual yet practical options, pet parents can contribute to a healthier planet while ensuring their pets lead happy and eco-friendly lives.
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