Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This page may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something that I have recommended. There is no additional cost to you whatsoever.
So, you bought a brand new canine? You’ve picked out his or her name and at the moment are working in your Christmas checklist to your four-legged good friend.
You might simply head to the pet retailer and choose one thing out. But are you certain that the entire pet merchandise on sale are secure and sustainable?
It’s straightforward to see that almost all of pet merchandise in the marketplace are constituted of plastic. Not solely do we’ve got the worldwide problem of plastic pollution creating devastating issues for our oceans, wildlife, and consuming water, however components generally present in plastics are dangerous to well being — sure, that features our canine companions’ well being, too!
This article comprises affiliate hyperlinks that assist fund Earth911’s Recycling Directory. If you buy an merchandise via one of many affiliate hyperlinks on this publish, we are going to obtain a small fee.
Plastic Is Bad for Dogs and the Environment
A typical chemical used within the manufacturing of plastic is bisphenol A, also called BPA. We’re certain you’ve heard of it. Studies have proven that BPA impacts the reproductive techniques of laboratory animals, suggesting it disrupts hormones.
Also, you’ll usually discover phthalates in plastic toys. Phthalates are chemical substances that make the toy extra versatile and sturdy. These, too, are identified to be endocrine disruptors.
We know that plastic doesn’t break down fully — you solely have to take a look at your canine’s post-toy-assassination poop. So when your canine has gotten bored of that exact toy, you’ll eliminate it. Since it could’t be recycled, it’s going to simply find yourself in a landfill for lots of of years.
Raising a Plastic-Free Dog
If you wish to increase a plastic-free canine, it’s not as onerous as you may suppose. Opt for toys made out of pure supplies like cotton, rope, natural rubber, canvas, wooden, wool, or bamboo.
You may even make your individual canine toys out of issues like previous T-shirts, socks, and towels. Upcycling used items is significantly better for the atmosphere, and your canine will nonetheless love the toy.
You may also provide cardboard packing containers as playthings. You’d be amazed at how artistic you may get with a cardboard box.
Purchasing a Durable Product
The different factor to examine if you buy is how sturdy the product is.
You wish to make certain it’s secure, that it doesn’t have small elements that may be chewed and swallowed. Squeak toys are the worst. Dogs instinctively wish to get to the squeaker, but it surely’s simply swallowed and might trigger an obstruction. You need an merchandise to final, so in case your canine is a toy murderer, then it’s only a waste of cash shopping for one you realize your canine will destroy in a matter of seconds.
While toys are sometimes items of selection, chews and treats are agency contenders too. But these will be much more of a minefield for canine homeowners.
Inspect Treat Labels
It pays to take a look at the labels of chews or treats. Make certain you acknowledge the entire components listed. Ideally, the primary ingredient ought to be a meat protein.
View chews and treats such as you would when trying to find a brand new dog food. While it’s a complementary addition to their weight loss plan, it nonetheless must be useful to their well being.
Read the label to see the place the product is made. Purchase gadgets which can be made as near you as doable. Also, each time doable, keep away from plastic and go for packaging that’s completely recyclable or biodegradable, like cardboard.
If you select pure chews, they usually don’t even want packaging. The similar is true for bulk treats, that are more and more out there made with wholesome components. Just take your individual reusable bag to the shop.
Grooming Products That Make Great Presents
If you’re contemplating shopping for grooming merchandise for a pet, once more cut back plastic the place doable. Shampoo bars have gotten more and more fashionable. Look for manufacturers which can be cruelty free and don’t include parabens, phthalates, or sulfates. Most shampoo bars are available in recyclable paper packaging.
Choose brushes with natural bristles and wooden handles.
Educating Others About Sustainable Pet Products
You could also be making an attempt your greatest to purchase secure and sustainable pet merchandise. But what occurs when mates or household purchase to your canine?
Many of us have accepted items understanding they are going to quickly find yourself within the bin. This is gloomy for a lot of causes.
The sale has already taken place, so the producer is inspired that there’s demand for the unsustainable merchandise and can doubtless proceed manufacturing it. Also, it’s one other merchandise destined for the landfill.
Consider organising a want checklist of secure and sustainable gadgets to your canine. Also, you can begin shopping for these merchandise for family and friends and clarify why you’re enthusiastic about them. Hopefully, they’ll additionally see the advantages and alter their buying habits subsequent time they purchase a pet reward.
We may also help encourage optimistic decisions via our buying decisions, as Bernadette Jiwa suggests:
… in a world the place it’s straightforward to be cheaper and quicker than the competitors, we now acknowledge the constraints … people are wired to do what feels good and what feels good to prospects proper now’s to make use of their decisions and buying energy to assist the constructing of a greater tomorrow.”
About the Author
Editor of All Things Dogs, canine lover John Woods is a member of the Association of Professional Dog Trainers, acknowledged creator by the Dog Writers Association of America, and a dog-parent to 2 rescue canines.
Feature picture by congerdesign from Pixabay. Originally revealed on December 4, 2019, this text was up to date in December 2022.
