April 22 will mark the fortieth annual celebration of Earth Day, as people all over the globe gather to take action against climate change and other environmental hazards. The environmental impact of dog ownership may not be on Earth Day’s official agenda, but a growing number of dog owners are finding ways to reduce their dogs’ “carbon pawprint”. From the food your dog eats to the way you handle its waste, here are some ways to turn your dog “green”.

1. Organic food and treats. Buzzwords such as “organic,” “holistic,” “all-natural” are now just as prevalent in the dog food aisle as they are on packages for human food – and can be just as confusing. If a dog food carries the “USDA Organic” seal, its ingredients were produced under strict guidelines, without toxic pesticides or fertilizers, and minimally processed, with no added hormones, antibiotics, or artificial ingredients or preservatives. Organically raised crops and livestock reduce the amount of toxic chemicals in the soil, water, and food supply, and may be more nutrient-rich than non-organic food. You should consult your veterinarian or breeder with questions about which dog food is right for your dog.


2. Eco-friendly Accessories. When shopping for dog items such as beds, leashes, and toys, look for products made from recycled or sustainable materials.  For example, the AKC offers a line of collars, leashes, and harnesses made of 100% recycled plastic bottles.


3. Non-toxic cleaners. Chemicals from cleaning products pollute the water supply and can cause irritation to dogs and their owners. Pet-stain cleaners that use enzymatic action are great choices. Keep your dog clean with shampoos produced under USDA organic guidelines, and which are free from ingredients such as  parabens, sulfates, and phthalates. Bonus points if you recycle the containers!


4. Waste disposal. Dog waste from a San Francisco dog park is being converted into methane gas which is piped in to the city’s natural gas supply. You don’t have to be quite so ambitious with dog’s leavings, but you can clean it up in environmentally-conscious ways. Disposing of scooped poop in biodegradable bags is a superior alternative than encasing it in plastic bags which will sit in landfills for hundreds of years. If your dog does its business in your yard, you can install a pet waste digester to turn the poop into compost – just make sure to keep it away from vegetable gardens and water supplies; dog and cat waste should not be used as fertilizer for food crops.


5. Respect animal life. Being a steward of the earth goes hand in hand with being a responsible dog owner. When you bring a dog into your family, and keep it safe and healthy for life, you’re creating and sustaining a natural bond that benefits you both. If you can help the Earth along the way – so much the better!

Protect your pup and the earth by using non-toxic lawn fertilizers.

Visit these websites for more information about “green” dog ownership.

Planet Green
Earthbark
Raise a Green Dog