“GREEN” YOUR DOG

10 Ways Your Dog Can Live An Eco-Friendly Lifestyle

1. Buy Used: Adopt a dog
The ultimate green dog is a “recycled” dog. When you adopt from your local shelter or rescue you help put a stop to over-breeding by puppy mills and backyard breeders.

2. Scoop the Poop
Poop left on the ground will eventually wash down into storm drains and waterways. Scoop and dispose of poop in biodegradable bags rather than plastic bags.

3. Healthy Meals
Dish up one of the many new holistic lines of dog foods. They use organic veggies and antibiotic- and hormone-free meat and dairy for a healthier alternative to dining.

4. Fighting Fleas
The next time you are at the garden store purchase nematodes, little worms that love to eat fleas and other garden bugs, as an alternative to spraying toxins.

5. Grooming Products
Soothe your dog’s skin at bath time by replacing chemical shampoos with products made with shea butter, olive, and many other skin conditioning oils.

6. Safer Dog Bowls
Some food and water bowls can contain hazardous chemicals like BPA and lead. Use stainless steel or lead-free ceramic dog bowls for safer ingestion.

7. Natural Dog Toys
If your dog plays with a plastic or vinyl dog toy, replace it with a non-toxic alternative like natural rubber or hemp that is safe for your dog to chew on all day long.

8. Eco-Friendly Dog Bed
Many dog bed materials are not good for the environment or your dog. Choose one with an organic cotton cover and filler such as 100% post consumer recycled plastic.

9. Organic Treats
Reward your dog with treats that don’t have growth stimulants, antibiotics, or pesticides. Healthy snacks made with wholesome ingredients are really a treat.

10. Waste Disposal
Throwing old medications, flea treatments or shampoos into the trash can pollute the soil and water. Call 1-800-CLEAN-UP for the waste center in your area.