Ways for Dogs to Go Green

Like with many aspects of life, there are various ways that dogs can go green. That is, dog owners can make several changes in their pets' lives that are healthier for the environment. From using biodegradable doggy bags to avoiding harsh cleaning products, going green with your pets is less harmful to everyone. How can you and your pooch go green? Try these five tips.

Use Biodegradable Bags

Instead of using plastic shopping bags or buying regular plastic bags for picking up your pet's waste, choose a biodegradable doggy bag. Normal plastic bags are not biodegradable, meaning they take a very long time to break down in the environment. Naturally, a bag that does break down quickly is much more eco-friendly than one that does not. They are not hard to find; you can find all kinds of biodegradable bags in pet stores and online.

Filter Your Own Drinking Water

My Morkie, Mila, has really fine hair and gets reddish stains on her white face when she drinks water, and all the minerals in tap water make it worse. I thought about giving her bottled water, but then I remembered that we filter our drinking water. Plastic bottles end up in landfills, where they take a long time to break down. Instead, filter water either with an attachment for your faucet or with a pitcher that has a water filter. It will save you money, and it is better for the environment.

Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners

Sometimes, dogs have accidents, and sometimes they track dirt and other yucky things into the house. Avoid using harsh chemicals to clean up after them, though. They are not only bad for the environment, but they are bad for your pets and your family, as well. Choose natural cleaning products--or make your own--to ensure you do not harm your loved ones' health and to preserve the earth.

Donate Old Collars & Leashes

Do you have any collars your dog has outgrown? When Mila was a two-month-old puppy, her neck was tiny. Once she outgrew her puppy collar, I bought a new one and have no use for the old collar and leash set. Donate those, outgrown doggy outfits and toys your pet no longer plays with to a rescue shelter, where there is sure to be puppies to get some use out of them.

Walk to the Dog Park

Do you sometimes drive your pet to the dog park so he can play with the other pups? Don't drive--walk there instead. Doing so is a small step toward preserving the environment. Plus, it is healthy for you and your dog. Getting there is a reward for your dog, and making it home will be rewarding to you.