According to Statista, in 2020 70% of American households owned a pet – up from 62% in 2011. When we think about our pets, we think about another member of our family.
A troubling fact is that the Environmental Working Group that found the toxins in dogs was even higher than humans. Some of the key sources of these toxins were food bags, plastic toys, the carpet/flooring in our homes, and pet shampoo.
There are many eco-friendly products out there for our furry friends. Today, I’ll focus on three areas that can make your pet ownership one shade greener.
FOOD
A little-known fact is that the food you are feeding your pets doesn’t need to be approved by the FDA. So, reading labels and knowing what is in the food you buy could be considered even more important than understanding the labels of the food the people eat. Below are two brands to consider. All offer both dog and cat food with a wide range of dry food, wet food, and treats.
- Tender & True – The Tender & True brand believes in sourcing and supplying their own ingredients by developing long relationships with growers and fisheries. They are USDA certified to be organic from farm to bowl. www.tenderandtruepet.com
- Evanger’s – This brand has been in business and independently owned by the founder’s family for over 75 years. Their products are made of natural ingredients, and each can is filled by hand instead of machines. www.evangersdogfood.com
SHAMPOO AND PET CARE
Like food products, many companies producing pet care and shampoo products have options for both cats and dogs. Below are two companies worth considering.
- 4-Legger – The 4-Legger brand has an extensive line of products and works to ensure its products are free from synthetic chemicals. www.4-legger.com
- Earthbath – This brand has a full line of shampoos, conditioners, and bath grooming products. Ingredients for each product are listed on the product details page. www.earthbath.com
- Ewegurt – The Midwest brand uses locally sourced sheep milk yogurt as their main ingredient in products like shampoo bars and calming pet treats. www.ewegurt.com
PET TOYS AND ACCESSORIES
There are many products for our pets that go beyond food and grooming. The three brands below carry eco-friendly pet toys and other accessories for both cats and dogs that are a good place to start.
- Only Natural Pet – This brand is a certified B Corp and carries beds, toys, and collars. In addition, they carry food, treats and grooming products. www.onlynaturalpet.com
- West Paw – This brand focuses on eco-friendly materials and processes to keep waste out of landfills, chemicals out of soil and water, and toxins out of products. www.westpaw.com
The Foggy Dog – This brand carries beds, accessories, and toys. They are produced in the US and use recycled plastic bottles for their stuffing. www.thefoggydog.com
Summary
There are many ways you can make your pet’s life One Shade Greener.
Today, choose one and make a change!