Have you thought about how your ownership of a dog can impact on the environment? Whether you are spending quality time at home or you are travelling, you should re-evaluate your habits and adopt sustainable living. Buying dog food, including the best grain free dry dog food, it’s worth considering foods that are processed and packaged in an eco-friendly way. There are other ways to live and travel sustainably with your dog.
1 Sustainable poop bags
Dogs can produce up to ¾lbs of poop daily. If not properly disposed of, the poo is both unsightly and dangerous. It can affect the environment if it drains into water sources, spreading viruses and bacteria. And if touched or eaten by children it will cause illness. It’s important to pick up poo but you should also think about buying “green” poop bags or using washable bags.
Make sure you buy biodegradable or compostable pet waste bags. These break down much faster than normal dog poo bags or supermarket bags. Look for bags that are naturally scented and created from non-GMO crops like tapioca and corn. Many brands are sold at pet stores and on-line.
2. Greener dog foods
Producing meat for both people and pets consumes huge amounts of land, water and resources, and beef production is the most polluting and environmentally-draining, followed by lamb. The UN states that livestock production is responsible for almost 20% of all CO2 emissions worldwide.
Instead of choosing beef-based dog food or wet food, switch to a food that’s primary protein is something with a smaller carbon footprint, such as chicken, turkey, sheep or sustainably-harvested fish.
It’s the same for treats. Look for grain, cereal or fish-based treats instead of those that are made of beef.
Also take the food dish and water bowl from home so you do not need to buy new ones.
3. Reuse and reduce the use of plastics
When travelling with your dog, you are more likely to carry food and toys. You should reduce the use of plastics if you want to have a “greener” life. If possible, reuse what you already have for packaging and carrying your travel essentials. Treats and food can be carried in old supermarket bags or in long life bags and plastic pots you already own. If you need to buy new, choose stainless steel food bowls rather than plastic.
4. Greener dog toys
Dogs love to play when going out for a walk, travelling to a beach vacation and other exciting destinations such as dog parks. Let them pick up their own sticks for entertainment or if you need something to throw, choose an old tennis ball.
There is no need to purchase new toys for the travelling, but if you feel the need try to find eco-friendly versions. Look for toys and products made from natural and sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, bamboo and hemp.
5. Go green with your dogs essentials
When travelling with your dog, you need to have a leash, harness and a collar. These are vital because dogs can get excited and start running around. Some can even get lost while playing, especially if you are still training it. In this case, you need to buy a collar, harness and leash made of green materials. They help you to promote environmentally friendly manufactures and to travel sustainably.
6. Book greener travel
There are plenty of ways to travel more sustainably even when you have a dog with you. Look for accommodation, resorts and destinations that offer more sustainable options. You could choose to travel more locally and therefore use less environmentally damaging fuels.
Also think about taking part in greener activities with you dog, such as walking hills, taking a stroll on the beach or heading to a local woodlands.