5 Ways You Can Be a Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Pet Owner

Did you know that pet ownership is booming in the US? Forbes reports that a significant number of households have welcomed furry (or feathery) companions for the past three decades.

As of 2024, over 65% of American homeowners (about 87 million homes) own a pet. That’s a notable rise from 56% in 1988. In fact, over 95% of pet owners consider their pets to be family. But with all that love comes many responsibilities. Pets can leave a paw print on the planet, from food production to waste disposal. 

The pet food industry alone in the US is substantial, with expenditures surpassing $147 billion in 2023. As of May 2024, Statista noted the figure to be around $150 billion. The highest-selling pet product category for 2022 was pet food, with sales exceeding $55 billion. It was accompanied by vet care and supplies/OTC medicine in the second and third positions. 

These numbers emphasize the importance of making eco-friendly choices across all aspects of pet care to reduce environmental impact. The good news is, there are several ways to be a more eco-conscious pet parent. 

This blog post will guide you through five practical and sustainable practices to help you become an eco-friendly pet owner.

1. Choose Eco-Friendly Pet Food

Ever stop to think about the environmental cost of your pet’s dinner? Conventional pet food production can involve a significant ecological footprint. Meat sourcing, processing, and distribution contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, resource exploitation, and deforestation.

The good thing is that there are more viable alternatives available. Seek pet food companies committed to ethically sourced ingredients, minimal processing, and recycled packaging. Remember, portion control is key, too!  Overfeeding your pet leads to waste, both in terms of food and ultimately, pet waste.

You can also switch to plant-based and insect-based proteins. In contrast to traditional meat-based pet foods, these substitutes often use less land, water, and energy to produce. The University of Edinburgh states that the wet pet food greenhouse gas emission output is 33.56 kg CO₂eq per 1,000 kcal, and that of dry food is 4.25. Furthermore, Plos One research concludes that reverting to plant-based pet food could reduce meat and dairy emissions by 15%. 

Moreover, the generated calorie boost could feed the UK and the European Union if all pets made this switch. However, before making any major changes to your pet’s diet to ensure it meets their dietary needs, always consult your vet.

2. Opt for Eco-Friendly Pet Products

When shopping for pet supplies, look for items made from sustainable materials. Conventional pet toys and accessories contain plastics that contribute to environmental pollution. Instead, select toys made from natural fibers, recycled ingredients, or ethically processed wood. 

Many companies now offer toys and apparel made from recycled plastics, natural fibers, or biodegradable materials. These products help reduce waste and often last longer than their traditional peers. For example, choose collars and leashes made from hemp or recycled materials instead of synthetic fabrics. Opt for beds stuffed with recycled polyester fill rather than virgin polyester. 

Companies like West Paw and Planet Dog offer durable, eco-friendly toys that are safe for your pets and the environment. These simple decisions can significantly minimize your pet’s environmental impact over time.

3. Manage Pet Waste Responsibly

Pet waste isn’t just unpleasant; it can also be a major environmental concern. Left unchecked, pet waste can contribute to water contamination and overflowing landfills. 

Invest in biodegradable poop bags for walks, and consider compostable litter options for cats. Another option is pet waste digesters that use enzymes to break down waste into environmentally friendly byproducts. Remember, always dispose of waste properly, even when using eco-friendly bags. Regular pet waste removal and deodorization help keep your home clean and prevent harmful bacteria from entering water systems. 

Scoop Soldiers suggests products like enzymatic cleaners and natural deodorizers to help keep your home fresh without relying on harsh chemicals. For outdoor spaces, consider installing a pet waste composter. These systems break down waste safely, enrich the soil, reduce landfill waste, and keep your yard clean and odor-free.

4. Adopt Eco-Friendly Grooming Practices

Grooming is an essential part of pet care that can be made more sustainable. Use natural, biodegradable grooming products to reduce chemical runoff. Look for grooming products free from sulfates, parabens, and synthetic fragrances. 

Brands like Earthbath and Burt’s Bees offer eco-friendly grooming products packaged in recyclable materials. Brush your pet regularly to minimize the need for frequent baths. This helps save water and reduce the use of grooming products. You can also opt for waterless shampoos or pet wipes when possible.

For professional grooming services, look for salons that use water-saving techniques and eco-friendly products. Some groomers now offer waterless cleaning options, which can be a great alternative for pets that don’t require full baths.

5. Consider Sustainable Pet Healthcare Options

Telemedicine for routine check-ups can reduce your carbon footprint by eliminating unnecessary travel. Many veterinarians now offer virtual consults for minor issues or follow-up visits.

For instance, Business Wire reports that Vetster, a veterinary telehealth and pet care platform, is making veterinary telemedicine more accessible in Florida. This allows over 12.5 million Floridian pet owners to receive diagnoses, treatment plans, and prescriptions online from best-in-class vets. Thus reducing the need for in-person visits and eliminating travel-related emissions. 

When medication is necessary, ask your vet about natural or eco-friendly options. Some companies are developing sustainable packaging for pet medications or offering natural alternatives where appropriate.

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