5 Tips for Sustainable Living with Your Dog
Waste separation, reducing plastic, drinking only from glass bottles... there are plenty of things you can do in your daily life for climate protection. But taking care of the environment and living sustainably with your four-legged friend? Is that possible? Absolutely!
With our 5 tips for environmentally conscious actions as a pet owner, you will definitely be able to reduce your shared ecological footprint.
The Recycled Sleeping Spot: Sleeping Green
Your four-legged friend loves to snuggle on their favorite pillow and snooze in the sun all day? That can be eco-friendly too! Many manufacturers use sustainable materials and recycled raw materials in production - there are even pillows made from PET bottles. Modern, super cozy, and quite climate-friendly.
If you want to save money and have some material left over, you can also get crafty and sew a resting place for your furry friend. You can fill it with old fabric scraps, such as holey socks and unwanted clothing, and securely close it. Your cuddle pillow is ready.
The Sustainable Toilet: For Little or Big Business
As a dog owner, you are required to clean up after your four-legged friend. It's as common as it is simple: The poop bags. They come in various colors and materials - unfortunately, most dog owners still rely on the standard bag. In this case, a biodegradable, water-soluble bag is a more sustainable option that you can dispose of with a clear conscience.
DIY Favorite Toy: Playing Sustainably
What brand, whether new or old - your pet doesn’t care. Homemade is best. Egg cups or an empty toilet paper roll for hiding food work particularly well. You can build a kind of course from them. This not only saves you money but also upcycles old items!
For your dog, simply take an old sock and stuff the toe area with as many other socks as you can until the sock forms a sort of large ball head. Now pull two socks over the ball and tie a cord tightly below the sock ball. Cut the remaining part below the ball into equal strips. Braid three strips together and tie a knot at the bottom to make the toy more durable. Your throw octopus is ready!
Sustainable Food Shopping: Environmental Protection Starts in the Bowl
When buying food, there are several points that can make your four-legged friend's diet more environmentally friendly. For wet food, ask yourself: Is the can made from sustainable and recyclable material? Dry food is already available in some so-called bulk stores. You simply bring your own container and fill it with the desired amount. Completely without packaging waste!
If you order food for your pet online, there are also a few things to consider. Does the shop use climate-friendly transport? This is important because every order travels a certain distance, causing emissions. What about the materials for the packaging? There are many points you can pay attention to regarding sustainability at your trusted shop.
Probier's doch mal hiermit!
Cycling Instead of Driving: Get on Your Bike and Go!
Trunk open, dog in, doors closed, and off to the lake? Almost! On not too hot summer days, it greatly benefits the environment if you ride a bike instead of driving. The CO2 emissions when cycling are 0, your furry friend can get a good workout, and you’re doing something good for your body too. Is your four-legged friend too small, sick, or too old to run alongside you for several kilometers?
There’s a solution for that too. Bicycle baskets specifically for dogs can be easily installed and hold up to 8 kg. A trailer for the bike can also be worthwhile for older or sick dogs. You invest a bit more upfront, but you’re doing something for your environment in the long run. Get on your bike!
There’s Always Something to Do
Protecting the climate and environment is not a one-time effort. That's why it's important that we all contribute whenever possible. If you need more tips and suggestions, here are a few more ideas:
- Bake treats yourself
- Have a →Veggie Day once a week for your dog
- Use wooden brushes
- Buy larger cans and bags of food instead of small ones
