How to be a More Eco-Conscious Dog Owner

It has become clearer than ever, over the last few years, that we are edging closer and closer to a global climate crisis and that we should be doing everything in our power to negate our carbon emissions, where possible, and live a more eco-conscious lifestyle. 

As pet owners this can often be difficult to negotiate, due to the foods our animals eat, the chemicals used in treatments of fleas and ticks, the non-recyclable packaging on pet foods and the damaging waste our beloved four-legged friends often produce, to name but a few.

Some studies have even suggested that owning a dog can have the equivalent carbon emissions to that of a family SUV, over the course of a year. Although these studies aren’t conclusive, the point remains that dog ownership isn't the best thing we can do for the planet. 

However, it’s not necessary to forget dog ownership completely (thank the lord!!), there are numerous ways that we can look after our dogs with the planet in mind and a number of things we can do to reduce the emissions our four-legged friends are responsible for. 

In Today’s post, we will be giving you a few tips on how to reduce your dog’s impact on the environment, alongside a few fabulous products that can help to ease the transition for you and your planet-preserving pooches. 

Vegetarian Dog Treats and Sustainable Dog Chews

The main problem with dog ownership and eco-friendly credentials is the foods they consume. According to research by the University of California, food for pets could be responsible for as much as a quarter of all emissions associated with the production of meat. Meat production is heavy on the use of land, water, fuel and pesticides, therefore, the more we can reduce our meat consumption, the better. 

Although there is the possibility of feeding dogs a sustainable diet, with insect-based and vegetarian foods, it is not recommended unless you are a specialist doggy nutritionist. 

However, we can all do our small bit to help by replacing our treats with plant-based alternatives, such as the vast range we have here at The Pets Larder, and substituting our dog chews for sustainable options, like our coffee wood chews and the splendid range of antler chews from Green & Wilds. 

Planet-Friendly Tick Treatments

Many of the flea, tick and mite treatments that are available for dogs are loaded with pesticides that can be harmful to the natural environment. Thankfully there are all-natural alternatives such as Herbal Dog Co. All Natural Flea & Tick Spot On For Dogs & Puppies, which is made from ingredients which are natural such as quassia bark, neem leaf & lemongrass essential oil. 

Pick Up Herbal Dog Co. All Natural Flea & Tick Spot On For Dogs & Puppies here >

Eco-Conscious Waste Disposal

Dog poo can be extremely toxic to the environment and throwing it away in plastic bags for landfill isn't a good option for disposal either. There are however several methods of getting rid of your dog’s waste that is eco-friendly. Composting is the main way of getting rid and is fairly easy to do, provided you have the space and the resources. For a full lowdown on dog poo composting check out this article from the American Kennel Club Here>

If you don't have space for a full composting system at home, you could also try an in-ground dog waste disposal system, which acts like a small septic tank for your dog's waste. 

Have a Look at an In-Ground Dog Waste System Here>

There are also certain councils across the country that offer an environmentally friendly way of dog poo disposal, but, they are limited. Check your local council area for more information.

Pet Food Packaging and Recycling 

Another small thing we can all do is to make sure we are buying foods that come in recyclable or reusable packaging. Many foods, nowadays, come in tins or paper bags that can be recycled with your home recycling and there is even a nationwide programme of recycling at major supermarkets, where the plastic cat and dog food pouches can be recycled too. So, there’s really not much excuse not to buy with an eco-conscious mindset when you can.

Find Your Local Recycling Centre For Pet Food Pouches Here>

So, even though it often seems like an insurmountable task to help the environment in all the ways we can, making better choices when it comes to our dogs is not only easy and cost-effective, it is the right thing to do for every living thing our planet is home to.