Greener Pets: How You Can Make Pet Ownership More Eco-Friendly

Pet ownership is a big responsibility - you have to care for the animal for its entire life, buying food, bedding, clothing, toys, and other supplies. But did you ever stop to think about the environmental responsibilities of owning a pet?

There is, in fact, a significant environmental consideration in owning a pet. Consider, for instance, the manufacture of pet foods and all the packaging involved, and consider the synthetic rubber and plastic toys pet owners often buy for their animals. Here are some tips on how you can make pet ownership more eco-friendly.

Managing Pet Wastes

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Dogs - When you walk your dog, you really need to scoop its poop. Leaving it outside pollutes the water supply and is unsanitary. It also changes the composition of the soil and kills grass and other plants. When you dispose of your pet's waste, the most eco-friendly thing to do is seal it in a biodegradable bag and trash it.

Cats - Scooping kitty litter is one of those tasks that most cat owners dislike, but you can at least make it a more eco-friendly venture by also using biodegradable bags to place the "scoopings" in. Also, effective, biodegradable kitty litter is available and is a good, eco-conscious choice.

Buying vs. Making Food

Interestingly, pets produce more of that problematic waste material (i.e. poop) when they are fed cheap pet food that's full of fillers and artificial colors. Also, the manufacture of pet foods on such a massive scale may not be the most environmentally friendly thing.

Consider making your own pet food, or buying sustainable, pre-made pet foods that are simple and natural. It's not too hard to make your own pet treats, either - they are basically just hard biscuits made in pet-friendly flavors.

Does Your Dog or Cat Really Need That?

Let's face it - it's fun to buy little cute toys and things for your fur babies. But does your dog really need another rubber squeaky toy, and does your cat need another plastic dingle ball? Many dogs are happy with a stick or a favorite toy or two, and many cats just enjoy an inexpensive piece of string. Rope toys made from natural hemp are an option for dogs, and many cats enjoy rolling on catnip, which you can grow yourself.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Flea Control

Controlling fleas is important for your pet's health and comfort. But using pesticides on your pet's body may be harmful both to your pet's health and to the environment. Consider eco-friendly, herbal flea collars, sprays, or spot-on treatments. It's also a good idea to comb your pet daily to remove fleas that were picked up outdoors before they get established.

By following just a few simple green tips, you can make owning a pet better for you, them, and the environment.

Finding Natural Dog Food Recipes

Your dog’s behavior, health, happiness, well being and longevity in large part depend on what you feed your dog. Although there are a variety of dog foods available in the market, natural dog foods are considered to be the best for a dog’s health. Dogs require specific nutrition that is necessary to maintain their health. The food that your dog eats should contain all the necessary nutrients as they play an important role in the proper functioning of your dog’s body. Natural and home-made dog foods are highly nutritious, plus your dog will love them!

Image via WikipediaNatural dog food is fairly easy to find these days, but as with human foods labeled "natural", it is best to check before buying, and make sure they are truly all natural. However, even the ones that are often contain a lot of salt or other things that your dog may not necessarily need so much of.

If you can, the best thing you can feed your dog (or yourself!) is home-made food. Natural dog food recipes are not difficult. In fact it is very easy to make your own natural dog food. Without any problem, you should be able to make most of these dog foods at home. All you require is access to some fresh natural ingredients. Natural dog food recipes can also help keep your dog healthy by providing all the nutrients they need in the freshest form. If you want to strengthen the immune system of your dog then making your dog's food at home yourself is your best bet.

Your dog may even find relief from allergies or fleas. Home-made natural dog food recipes are much better than processed pet food. Some experts believe that processed food is responsible for causing many illnesses among pets. A constant diet of processed dog food may give rise to coat and skin problems and other serious health problems. In some cases, it could even lead to premature death of your dog.

Natural dog food is a great source of energy as well, and will help keep your dog happy as well as healthy. Various natural dog food recipes are available online, and there are also a number of natural dog food recipe cookbooks. With the help of these books, you can make your own natural dog food at home.

Image via WikipediaDogs not only survive but thrive on this type of food. Here is just one example of a popular natural dog food recipe, which is safe and healthy for your dog.

Akita Style Rice and Lamb: The ingredients of this dog food recipe are lamb, brown rice, broccoli, potatoes, carrots and kombi. Brown the lamb in a skillet, and then add rice. Stir well until starting to brown, then add cubed potatoes. Cook a few minutes. Add to crock pot, along with a small quantity of water, and all other ingredients. Mix well, cover, and cook until tender. Yum!  So good you will probably want some too! 

Natural Dog Food Recipe Books: