Eco-Friendly Choices For Our Pets
Small Decisions With A Big Impact
By Melanie Carden
Consumer demand for sustainability is on the rise—and the pet industry is no exception. Pet owners want what’s best for their lovable fur-babies—and the planet. There are endless ways for companies to work toward these goals—everything from the ingredients and materials to the packaging. As the industry grows and gravitates toward green—we’ve spent some quality time with some of the brands making major headway. Our curated sustainability guide is packed full of “green goods” for the floofmeisters in your life. You don’t need to choose between the planet and your best buddy’s favorites—this list addresses both with TLC.
Up Country’s eco-friendly Green Market collars are made with bamboo, one of the world’s most renewable resources! Soft yet strong, all collar hardware is cast brass, not welded, for extra strength. The buckles are Coast Guard approved for high weight. Green, strong, and beautiful! Info: Up Country
100% organic, clean, toxin-free ingredients to heal flaking, dry dog noses, cracked paws, and skin irritations. NY-based Pup Wax products are free from petroleum derived ingredients which accumulate in a dog’s body over time, and its eco-friendly and recyclable glass packaging is gift-worthy gorgeous. It’s your go-to balm all year long. Info: Pup Wax
Petco believes in second chances. That’s why they collect and process plastic bottles into fiber pellets that make up the fabrics of the products in the Started as a Bottle collection. Your pretty pup can make a difference and a fashion statement. Info: Petco
Artisanal goods for the bestest little pets on the planet. Made Terra is an eco-friendly, sustainable company. In addition to their Vietnamese-hand crafted home goods, they offer pet products made with natural materials—leaving little to no carbon footprint. This Sea Grass House is perfect for cats, rabbits, chinchilla, hedgehog, and hamsters—and it’s made from natural nibble-safe materials. Info: MadeTerra
This rainbow-themed dog leash from 2 Hounds Design’s Earth Style collection combines colorful upbeat designs with earth-friendly webbing made using recycled plastic bottles. Their Freedom No-Pull Harness is an editor-favorite. Give your handsome wagger a little swagger. Got a challenging chewer? No worries, upgrade to their chewing-replacement warranty. Info: 2 Hounds Design
Pagerie’s vegetable-tanned leather is both durable and sustainable. Unlike faux leather made from synthetic plastic, their vegetable tanning process is biodegradable and reduces toxic chemicals. They use 100% recyclable stainless steel for its aesthetics and longevity. Even their packaging is environmentally friendly and can be used as a keepsake!
Info: Pagerie
Minimum shedding with maximum bonding—these grooming gloves offer massage nodules for gentle bathing, grooming, and massage. Latex Free HandsOn uses top grade materials that include surgical grade nitrile which make the gloves hypoallergenic, chemical and mildew resistant so they will not irritate you or your pets. Works wet or dry—even the most skittish pet will want to give it a try. Info: HandsOn Gloves
Kizzou is serving up major puppy fashion and eco-awareness. Their mission is to create beautiful and functional designs for dogs while doing no harm to the people and the planet. Their runway-worthy dog apparel is crafted in small batches using sustainable materials in collaboration with local businesses. Info: Kizzou
Alas—modern luxury for the eco-conscious pet! The environment-savvy folks at Whom use sustainable hardwood and materials made from recycled polystyrene pulled from the oceans, and non-toxic paints and finishes. Whom offers a selection of more than 50 easy-to-clean fabrics, which also have a lighter carbon footprint. Info: Whom
Even your dog’s toys can make an eco-friendly statement. This cute stuffie says “Hey planet, I’m rooting for you!” Reclaimed plastic bottles are reinvented into plush fibers for this veggie-themed hide-and-seek toy. Squeaker and crinkle inspire active play for your favorite planet-conscious dog. Info: Petco
For the kitty that loves tuna—but also strives for an ocean-friendly lifestyle. Supakit—a London-based company—offers PETA approved Vegan Harnesses, made from 100% natural cork harvested in Spain. And their textile collars are made using recycled sea plastics. Meow, MeWOW. Info: Supakit
Orvis knows dogs. And they know you want to be a part of the global climate solution. They make it easy with their ComfortFill-Eco bolster-style dog bed. Each bed upcycles approximately 258 plastic water bottles in its stuffing—which won’t flatten or clump, no matter how much your dog burrows or nests. Available at Orvis
SodaPup is a leader in durable natural rubber dog toys. Natural rubber is a sustainable material that comes from rubber trees which produce latex for 40-45 years. They have an extraordinary selection of shapes, treat dispensers, and power chewing solutions. SodaPup is a treasure trove of tough-tested toys. Info: SodaPup
Copper naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria, which makes it perfect for pets’ water bowls. Copper slows the growth of biofilm—that icky film that is a by-product of your pet’s saliva mixing with water. It can contain disease-causing viruses and bacteria. Say bu-bye to biofilm and upgrade to this lux copper option. Info: Copper H2O
When we think of green initiatives, we shouldn’t overlook our grooming choices. Earthbath is a great choice for pet-parents who want eco-friendly options. Its naturally derived, hypoallergenic ingredients are paraben-free, soap-free, and dye-free. Choose from Oatmeal & Aloe or their hot-spot treatment shampoo with Tea Tree Oil & Aloe Vera. Info: Petco
