Eco-Dog Tips

When it comes to being eco-friendly, little things can definitely add up. Here are some tips on easy things you can do to make the canines in your life earth dogs.

• Take a walk around your neighborhood instead of driving to the dog park or a trail. Not only will this help the environment, but it will also save you gas money and time. Step the earth friendliness of your walks up a notch by bringing along a bag and picking up garbage that you find laying on the ground.
• When buying doggie necessities, seek out natural, lower impact items. Look for goods marked as eco-friendly, organic and non-toxic. Spend a little more money on well-made quality items vs. cheaper, flimsy stuff. It’ll last longer, creating less waste and saving you money in the long run.
• Make your own food and/or treats, if possible, and buy ingredients in bulk when you can. This will save you money and eliminate a lot of unnecessary packaging. Plus, you know what’s going into their tummies and can make it organic as much as possible!
• Scoop that poop! In short, if it stays on the ground, it can contaminate the ground and the water supply. I did a more in-depth post on this here.
• Instead of dumping old water from their bowl out, water a plant with it.
• When cleaning up after them, use reusable rags and non-toxic cleaners instead of paper towels and chemical products.
• During bath time, only run the water when you need it. Turn it off when you’re sudsing them up and keep a pitcher of water nearby for when you need a little more water. Brushing them on a daily basis will help to keep them clean, lengthening the time between baths.
• For winter ice, use an eco-friendly ice melter. Most companion animal supply stores sell them and they work just as well as other ice melters. They’re not only safe for the environment but for paw pads, as well.

I'll be posting reviews on eco-friendly products as well as more tips in the future, so stay tuned!