By Rebecca Rhoades and Jordan Gerard
Pets benefit humans, so we are more than happy to shower them in love and happiness. When it comes to our pets, there’s little we wouldn’t do to ensure their happiness. We feed them human-grade foods, buy them luxurious furnishings, and indulge their cravings for Puppucinos. But our commitment to their health and happiness doesn’t have to come at the expense of our planet.
Sustainability and environmental consciousness have made their way into the pet industry, as consumers demand products for their four-legged and feathered friends that feature natural ingredients, come in recyclable packaging, and are made with sustainable processes.
As always, make sure to always speak with your veterinarian before introducing a new food or supplement into your pet’s diet.
Mighty Mutt Nose and Paw Balm
Because dogs love to romp just about anywhere, it’s important to protect their paws. Mighty Mutt’s Healing and Soothing Nose and Paw Balm keeps your pup’s nose and paw pads moisturized and protected from cracking. The ingredient list is organic and simple: coconut oil, beeswax, shea oil, jojoba oil, carnauba wax, and kokum butter. Grooming tools and brushes are made with bamboo. Mighty Mutt offers natural grooming products that are plant-based, PH-balanced, anti-itch, and hypoallergenic, in addition to being made without sulfates, parabens, silicones, dyes, or other harsh chemicals. Their products are also biodegradable, made in the USA, and are not tested on animals. $13.99, https://mightymuttlove.com
Mini Pet Hair Detailer
Stop throwing away single-use adhesive sheets! Eliminate difficult-to-remove pet hair from clothes, furnishings, and vehicles with the Lilly Brush Mini Pet Hair Detailer. This pocket-size tool, which at 3-by-4 inches is slightly larger than a business card, removes stubborn pet hair, even on cat trees. It’s designed to last for up to seven years, helping reduce environmental waste — simply rinse with soap and water after each use. In addition, Lilly Brush donates a portion of every sale to animal shelters, foster programs, and organizations that protect animals and the planet. $14.95, lillybrush.com
Natural Paper Pet Bedding
Hamsters, guinea pigs, rabbits, and other small animals require shredded or pelleted bedding material for comfort, sleeping, and digging. Most bedding is made from wood shavings or sawdust, which can be harmful. Natural Paper Pet Bedding by CritterCare is soft, safe, and dust-free. Made from 100% sustainable and renewable paper fiber, it is both compostable and biodegradable and absorbs two times more than shavings. And pet-safe odor control keeps your home and your pet’s living space smelling fresh and natural. Available in three hues and two sizes. $9.99-$14.99, healthy-pet.com
Find more Products featured on Green Living. Check our website throughout August for more eco-friendly products for pets.