People all around the world are now coming together to try and help the earth by using sustainable alternatives to things they use in everyday life. From recycling to veganism to electric cars, humans are coming up with sustainable products and ideas every day, but one aspect that people forget about when it comes to sustainability is their pets.
A lot of products created for pets are not eco-friendly and often come packaged in unrecyclable materials. So, it is important to ensure that you are being sustainable when it comes to caring for your furry friend. Here are some ways you can be an eco-friendly pet owner.
Eco-friendly toys
Buying pet toys is often one of the most important purchases you’ll make. With dogs, for instance, toys provide exercise, enjoyment and support their dental health.
However, choose a more sustainable, natural dog toy from an eco-friendly retailer. Certain pet toy manufacturers are aiming to be more eco-friendly and ensure that their products have as little packaging as possible, and if they do have packaging, that it’s recyclable.
Adopt, don’t buy
One of the best ways to ensure you are being an eco-friendly pet owner is to adopt your pets, rather than buying them from breeders.
In the UK, there is an overpopulation of pets, with the majority of these being dogs and cats. That is the reason why most people spay and neuter dogs and cats, to slow down overpopulation.
Breeders, however, are working in direct opposition to this and breeding an unnecessary number of pets, which is especially unsustainable as there is mass overcrowding in animal shelters across the UK.
So, adopt your pet from a respectable shelter organisation such as the RSPCA or the Dogs Trust!
Avoid plastic as much as possible
The widespread use of plastic products and packaging is having a massive impact on the environment and wildlife all over the world. Mass numbers of plastic items are washed up on beaches globally every day and it also endangers a wide range of wildlife by contaminating food and water sources.
Therefore, it is important to make sure you are purchasing eco-friendly options for your pets. Steel food bowls, compostable waste bags and compostable cat litter are all viable options! When buying products for your pets, make sure you are choosing the sustainable option.
In conclusion
With the society-wide desire to be more eco-friendly and sustainable, it is becoming easier to be an eco-friendly pet owner day by day. Make sure to stay informed and up-to-date on all the sustainable options in pet ownership and you will help not just your pet, but animals around the world.