You might be a top-notch recycler. Or perhaps you proudly drive a
Prius or other hybrid car. Maybe you've switched to a vegan
lifestyle - all with the intention of helping to save the planet or in
honor of Earth Day, April 22, 2010.
But what about your
dog? From loping through the woods to pooping on the pavement, he
definitely leaves his carbon paw print on the planet. Below, are
listed some great tips on how to green your dog courtesy of www.raiseagreendog.com.
They also provide a Green Dog Pledge which you can download, print out
and mail back to them along with a photo of your dog. Pretty soon
you'll see your own pooch added to their photo gallery of Green Dogs.
Here are some great tips from www.raiseagreendog.com on how your dog can reduce his impact on the earth by going green:
Kellie lives a green life even in the white snow
• Adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue group • Spay or neuter your dog to reduce overpopulation. • Keep your dog from unnecessarily killing wildlife • Buy dog products made with organic or recycled materials.
• Purchase products made closer to home,
and help lower the energy costs of shipping goods. • Buy sustainable and durable products that don't have to be replaced so often. • Feed your pup foods and treats that have organic or all natural ingredients. • Use cleaning and other household products that are good for the environment.
• Purchase a Doggie Dooley and recycle
that pet waste, and when on the road use
biodegradable bags when cleaning up
the doo. • Buy products
for your pup made out of all natural materials, like hemp dog collars
and cotton clothing. • Use
environmentally friendly deicers on your drive and sidewalks - good for
your pets and the World. •
Spend some time making some of your pups toys and goods - take an
afternoon and turn those old socks into a great tugging toy; or old
blankets into bedding. • Cook for your pup, for a healthier dog and a healthier environment.
But
even if you and your dog opt for all of the above, many experts say
that the one choice you and your dog can make that would do the most to
save the planet is to stop eating meat and go vegetarian/vegan.
A lifelong dog and animal advocate, Shelley Frost wrote
Your Adopted Dog: Everything You Need to Know about Rescuing and Caring
for a Best Friend in Need (The Lyons Press, 2007) with coauthor
Katerina Makris. Email Shelley: shelley@youradopteddog.com, and visit www.youradopteddog.com
