An increasing amount of dog and cat lovers would like to keep their pets healthy and, at the same time, reduce the carbon paw print their pets and themselves are leaving on Mother Earth. Many small businesses out there can cater better to this requirement than larger pet stores.
Read what to look out for when buying eco-friendly pet products, and tell us which of the below 4 suggestions you'll be trying first?
Natural treats
There are so many natural treats out there for dogs and cats. They are made with ingredients that are good for them and the environment.
These treats are also low in calories and high in fibre.
When you buy natural treats, look out for the below.
No additives and preservatives
A preservative is an ingredient which is added to the treat to slow down spoilage. The most common are BHA (E320) or BHT (321). Both are linked to promoting tumours in different studies but can also promote behavioural problems. Although there is scientific evidence that these are dangerous substances for dogs and cats, both are currently allowed in the US and the EU.
Another preservative, Propyl Gallate (E310), has formed tumours in rats. Finally, potassium sorbate (E202) is a well-known skin, eye and respiratory irritant that should be avoided. To be 100% sure that your dog treats are free from preservatives, ensure the label reads "free from artificial preservatives" and the brand is trustworthy.
Natural preservatives are made from Vitamin C and E and can be found on the packaging as "tocopherol" and "ascorbate".
No flavour enhancers
Common and cheaper pet treats contain ingredients to enhance the product's palatability for our cats and dogs. These are highly rendered ingredients and are more low-grade than natural flavours. You can spot them on packaging labelled as monosodium glutamate (MSG) or E621.
High-quality pet food manufacturers use natural flavours. Raw meat does not need any flavour enhancers at all.
Treats and food, in general, greatly influence your dog's well-being. So ensure to read all labels and buy regional pet food brands that don't produce food and treats overseas.
Natural hemp dog collars
Hemp is a great plant used for centuries by people for various purposes. It is one of the oldest plants known to man, with excellent tensile strength.
It was first cultivated in China more than 5,000 years ago.
Today, hemp is grown worldwide for clothing, paper, food, fuel, building materials, and much more.
It is especially noteworthy and eco-friendly as a material for dog collars, leads and harnesses.
In addition, it is vegan and an entirely plant-based material.
The benefits of hemp for people, pets and the planet are almost endless:
Hemp is a natural material, so it's biodegradable and doesn't leave microplastics in oceans and soil.
Hemp is untreated if it's natural, so no azo dyes that can lead to skin allergies or reactions.
Hemp has excellent tensile strength and can withstand pulling and rain.
Hemp is super breathable, lightweight, and doesn't suffocate your dog's skin, making for a perfect dog collar for sensitive skin.
Hemp has a low carbon footprint. This is because it uses, for example, 1/3 less water in the growing process than cotton.
Synthetic collars and leads made from nylon or polyester have traces of chemicals from the manufacturing process and cancer-causing azo-dyes. However, being plant-based, hemp doesn't require chemical treatment.
Choose more plants and less plastic.
Non-Toxic Cleaners
There are so many different kinds of cleaners out there. They come in all shapes and sizes, and some even contain harmful chemicals that can cause confusion and seizures in your pets.
However, natural cleaners are also available that are safe for humans and pets. These cleaners are made with baking soda, vinegar, lemon juice, essential oils, and other natural ingredients.
The best cleaner to get rid of dog smell in the house is easy, and you will likely have all ingredients at home. It is natural and safe for fabrics and your dog!
Mix 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Mix them together, and they will start to foam.
Once the foam settles, add 2 cups of water.
Add the liquid into a spray mist bottle, and it is ready.
Mist the air, fabrics and your dog's favourite area with the spritz after every vacuuming and cleaning session.
Baking soda acts as a natural odour absorber. It doesn't add fragrance, but it just eliminates the smelly ones.
Biodegradable hemp rope toys
If you're looking for biodegradable toys for your dog or cat, you must check everything made from leather, cotton, hemp or jute. Avoid synthetic rubber, polyester, rawhides and nylon. If you're a lover of eco-friendly pet products, then hemp rope toys are what you've been looking for.
◙ Hemp is a tooth-friendly toy that will pass the fingernail test and relieve puppy teething pain and strengthen gums: Don't fear for your furniture or chew toys that are too hard for your dog's gums.
◙ Hemp has a natural, earthy smell that will attract your dog and keep them away from your human possessions.
◙ A plastic-free dog toy that is biodegradable, good for the planet and your best friend. Don't feel "plastic guilt" because you can just bury the ripped-up fabric rests in your garden or compost
◙ Tug of war rope toy, fetch outside or leave your dog to chew around on it while you're working from home. Hemp makes for a multi-purpose dog toy.
As you can see, it is easy to go green with our eco-friendly pet product suggestions. Which one are you going to try first?
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Health Disclaimer: The information provided through this website should not be used for diagnosing or treating a health problem or a disease. It is not a substitute for professional care. If your dog may have a health problem, you should consult your vet.