GREEN YOUR PET ROUTINE

Help keep the planet and your family healthy by making these simple switches to nontoxic, eco-friendly products and methods

THE SCOOP ON POOP

Not only will leaving your dog’s business where he drops it annoy your neighbors, but it can also spread pathogens. Animal waste carries disease, and rain can wash it into the water supply, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council (NRDC). Never flush your cat’s waste down the toilet either. Cat feces can carry toxoplasmosis, a disease caused by parasites that live on it. Instead, toss both in your garbage— use biodegradable waste bags to reduce the environmental impact. Also, try a greener cat litter made of shredded paper, walnut shells or wood shavings instead of bentonite clay or silica.

CHEMICAL CHECK

Some flea- and tickcontrol treatments contain ingredients that can make your family sick. An NRDC study showed that pesticide residue from certain OTC flea and tick collars, powders and sprays increases the risk of learning disabilities and cancer in humans. Instead, James Lok, Ph.D., a professor of parasitology at the University of Pennsylvania, recommends oral treatments containing lufenuron and nitenpyram, which inhibit fleas’ life cycle without posing the same risk to humans. Use biodegradable grooming products too, so as to prevent detergents from washing into groundwater.

SUSTAINABLE “STUFF”

Choosing pet toys made of recycled materials can help lessen the environmental load—even if your doggo chomps through them on the regular. And when your puppy or kitten outgrows their gear or you no longer need any toys that have been gently used, unopened leftover food, pet beds or bowls, consider donating them to organizations that can help families that really need them. Animal shelters are also constantly in need of goods to help critters in their care. But call your local shelter or rescue organization before dropping stuff off—some feed their charges specific foods or have particular requirements.

eco-friendly pet care

SOAP-FREE SHAMPOO EARTHBATH NATURAL, $15, CHEWY.COM

WALNUT SHELL LITTER NATURALLY FRESH, $9, CHEWY.COM

RECYCLED-MATERIAL TOY WESTPAW ZOGOFLEX, $11, WESTPAW.COM

BIODEGRADABLE WASTE BAGS BIOBAG, $4 FOR 50, PETCO.COM