We are trying to reduce our carbon footprint and do our best to save the planet. From turning off lights when not in use to recycling and composting
As dog owners, there are ways we can reduce our carbon pawprint, and this article aims to bring you some of the top ways this can be done.
Walk more with your dog and take the car less.
Many dog owners start their dog walks by getting in the car (Finchley Dog Walker does use cars or vans), and unless you live in a built-up area, I am sure you can leave the car at home and start the walk from your front door. North London has some great parks and open spaces cbn
I love our choices as a dog walker in the Finchley and Muswell Hill area. By varying how you walk to the park, you can jazz it up with new smells for your dog.
If you want to go to new and exciting places, why not jump on a bike or tube and explore London and the home counties by public transport?
Change the dog poo bags you use
We all know how important it is to pick up after the dog when you are out on walks. Next time you buy poo bags, why not get compostable or biodegradable ones. This way, you won’t be adding to the plastic waste.
Biodegradable bags are made out of material that degrades over time. The compostable ones are much better, as they should start to break down after around three months.
Take extra care with your dog (and their poo) around water.
We all know it is important to pick up dog poo and dispose of it correctly. This helps prevent dog poo and pathogens from washing into the water supply via rivers, streams and other waterways.
Studies have shown that the nitrogen and phosphorus found in your dog’s poo may also damage our natural ecosystems.
Recycle dog food pouches.
We are all used to recycling every day, but as a country, we are not quite there yet as there are still items we have to chuck in the bin.
However, with a bit of research, you can now find brands of pet food that use recyclable packages.
Use eco-friendly cleaners.
Many commercial cleaners are not only bad for the environment but also bad for your dog, should they decide to investigate it.
Why not consider using eco-friendly cleaners like vinegar or baking soda? These homemade cleaners are safe for your dog and the environment. Our article on a clean house with dogs can help.
Toys from household items
A great way to recycle items such as Toilet rolls is to turn them into DIY toys.
A cardboard box can make a great toy, or it is large enough for a bed for the cat to curl up in. Plastic bottles are great to put treats in for your dog to get out, and toilet rolls can be used for bird feeders, puzzle toys etc.
Pass on unloved toys.
Once your dog has got bored of a toy, if they are still in good condition, then why not clean and sterilise them and pass them onto a charity shop such as All Dogs Matter in Muswell Hill
Dog bed
Consider investing in a high-quality dog bed made from organic cotton, wool, or recycled material. Hi-quality natural-fibre dog beds are hypoallergenic, mould-resistant, and sustainable.
Natural Repellents
Use natural flea and tick repellents instead of chemical-based ones. Chemical flea and tick repellents harm the environment and your dog’s health. T y using essential oils like lavender or citronella to repel ticks and fleas naturally.
Adopt, don’t shop.
Choose to adopt a dog from a rescue or shelter. This helps reduce the demand for breeding pets in inhumane conditions, and puppies often come with expensive medical bills for breed-related health conditions. Giving a dog a second chance through the adoption process also helps reduce the number of dogs euthanized in shelters due to overcrowding.
Finally, do your research on sustainable and eco-friendly dog products. You can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a greener planet by choosing environmentally sustainable dog products.
Overall, by making minor changes to your dog-owning lifestyle, you can significantly impact the environment while ensuring that your furry friend is happy, healthy, and safe.
I hope these tips will help you and your pup take greener and more sustainable steps towards a better future.