Green Your Dog

Your dog has a carbon footprint just like you do. Well, more like a carbon pawprint. There are some simple things you can do to improve the overall environmental impact your dog is making.

1. Use Biodegradable Bags: It’s a given that you must pick-up after your dog to avoid unhealthy bacteria and nutrients from poisoning our streams and soil, but don’t forget to use biodegradable bags so your dog’s waste isn’t mummified for eternity in a plastic bag. You can buy biodegradable dog bags at Greater Goods on U Street and Doggie Style near Dupont.
2. Buy Organic Food: The same principle that applies to organic human food applies to organic dog food. By choosing organic kibble, you can help stop the use of harmful pesticides and artificial fertilizers that wreak havoc on water bodies. Green Pets on 14th St. NW sells several lines of organic dog foods.
3. Make Your Own Dog Toys: Dog toys are expensive and are usually manufactured overseas using an array of unnatural products. Save yourself some money and apply the “Reuse” portion of the 3 R’s of recycling by making toys out of old socks, towels, stuffed animals, tennis balls, etc.