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An eco-conscious dog
As we come out of Earth Day weekend, I’d like to take a look at how we pet owners can contribute to keeping the planet clean. Many animal lovers I know, myself included, also love nature and are often sympathetic with the green movement.
However, for some of us who don’t live in more urban areas it might be difficult to obtain many environment-friendly pet items. Sometimes small local stores might carry them, but at high prices some might not be able to afford. Others might not have any purchasing options nearby. Options abound on the internet, but I know sometimes I am wary about ordering things from unfamiliar websites, not wanting to give them my credit card information.
If your situation matches any of the above scenarios, Petco now has you covered. The pet megastore has recently launched a new eco-friendly line of products called Planet Petco.
Even before now, Petco (or at least my local branch) always had a large selection of all natural and organic pet foods. Planet Petco extends these options, but adds many new products as well. The merchandise all falls under two categories: Sustainable Based Products, which are made from recycled/reclaimed materials, and Natural Based Products, which are made from renewable resources.
You’ll recognize Planet Petco products by seeing the titular logo on the packaging, but also present are other symbols that indicate additional ways in which the product is “green.” There are symbols for sustainably-made items, all natural products, no added chemicals, things that are recyclable, ones that are made from recycled materials, and for biodegradable products and/or packaging.
‘Great,’ you might be wondering, ‘but what exactly are some of these products?’ I’ve already mentioned the natural and organic food one can purchase for one’s pets, and the many other products are similar. For example, now you can purchase various types of wooden crates and doghouses for your canine friend, made out of either all-natural wood and/or biodegradable materials.
Pet toys follow the same line; they might be constructed from organic cotton or recycled materials, thus making them more biodegradable. Leashes and shampoo also show up on the list. What I find the most interesting item, however, is the special small animal bedding and cat litter.
Both of the above items are made with tiny pieces of shredded post-consumer paper that makes it much more biodegradable. I admit this item, at least the cat litter (I don’t really know much about small animal bedding), gives me pause.
Cats can be notoriously picky about their litter, and felines that don’t like what’s in their box might choose other locations, including their owners’ bed, to relieve themselves instead. Once I find a brand of litter that works for my cat, I’m hesitant to try a different type.
If any new brand of cat litter could tempt me away from one I know that works, however, it would be one as sustainable as that offered by Planet Petco. To further sweeten the deal, Petco donates 1% of all the profit from its Planet Petco line to environmental nonprofits.
Planet Petco is a great option for those dedicated to green living with their pets, but who might not have any better options for purchasing. I’m still inclined to support local business and buy my sustainable pet items from a nearby small business owner, but I’m glad that Petco is joining up to help conserve the environment.
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*(This image by manwithface is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.5 License.)
