How to Be a Sustainable Pet Owner

We all want to do our part to do better for the planet, but this can be especially tricky when it comes to our pets. Oftentimes, we don’t question the packaging that our pet food comes in or the impact our pets themselves might have on the environment. This doesn’t need to be the case. Below, we’ve outlined some of the steps we as pet owners can take to be more sustainable and help push positive change. 

Sustainable Pet Ownership

Unfortunately, the rumour of pets having a high carbon footprint isn’t false. It’s been estimated that cats and dogs may create the equivalent of 64 million tons of carbon dioxide a year which is estimated to have the same environmental impact as 13.6 million cars.

While this may seem scary, it doesn’t mean we shouldn’t keep our beloved companions. Rather, to be a more sustainable pet owner, we should take the necessary steps to offset our pet’s carbon pawprint, and here’s how. 

Choose a Sustainable Dog Food 

The biggest contributor to our pet’s carbon pawprint comes from their diet, especially if your pet is on a predominantly beef diet. It’s been estimated that pets eat 20% of the world’s meat and fish, and given that animal meat for food production is one of the biggest CO2 contributors in the world, you can see where the issue lies. 

If you’re looking to offset your pet’s carbon pawprint, try switching to more sustainable pet food choices, such as those made from chicken or fish. Another great way is to choose a more sustainable pet food brand. One of our favourite sustainable brands is Burns, and you can learn all about their dedication to the environment and sustainability on their website. 

Burns Pet Food offers a fantastic range of cat and dog food made from natural, wholesome ingredients right here in the UK. 

Recycle Food Packaging

Many pet food brands are taking a step towards sustainability by ensuring all their packaging is recyclable in the UK. So, all you need to do is ensure that once you run out of your dog’s food, you put the packaging in the right bin on recycling day.

Even food in pouches can now be recycled; if it is not in your general household recycling, then take it to your local pet shop or recycling centre. 

Biodegradable Poo Bags & Biodegradable Cat Litter

A lot of the time, nature knows best. When cleaning up after your dog, by using biodegradable dog poo bags like these Beco Compostable Dog Poop Bags, which are made of cornstarch and are entirely compostable. This way, you can fulfil your responsibility of cleaning up after your dog, while also offsetting their carbon pawprint. These bags can be composted at home or disposed of normally, after which they will biodegrade back down to their natural element. 

The same principle applies when using biodegradable cat litter, like this Cat's Best OkoPlus Clumping Wood Cat Litter or Recycled Litter. These litters are made from 100% natural organic fibres that can either be composted or disposed of in the toilet like your own waste. 

Sustainable Pet Toys

Pet toys are another great way that you can start doing your part for the planet, while also ensuring your pet stays entertained and gets all the enrichment they need. Here are some of the best ways you can be more sustainable with your pet’s toys: 

• Recycling old household items into toys, such as turning old t-shirts or socks into rope toys for your dog, or using a shoelace for your cat to chase. Just make sure that whatever you make is safe for your dog and that they aren’t left unsupervised with any DIY pet toy that could be swallowed. 
• Buying pet toys from a sustainable brand, like this Beco chew toy for dogs.
• Donating old toys to shelters or other pet owners. This way, your old or unwanted toys can get more love instead of being thrown away. Just make sure that any toys you donate or pass on are in a suitable condition to be used as a toy before you do so. 
• We still have a ways to go before we can offset all the carbon emissions damaging our planet, but these little changes are better than none at all, and together we can work towards a greener future for us and our pets. 

If you’re looking to make a change for the better and become a more sustainable pet owner, check out our great range of sustainable pet supplies, or get in touch with us to find eco-friendly products so you can do your part for the planet. 

This post is an opinion and should only be used as a guide. You should discuss any change to your pet’s care or lifestyle thoroughly with your vet before starting any program or treatment.