Let's start with a substance we all know: plastic. It has become indispensable in our lives and therefore also in the life of our furry friend. Think about plastic toys, food bowls, and also food packaging. Plastic is an excellent preservative: it keeps food fresh and makes it easy to transport and store. But do these advantages outweigh the BIG villain: plastic damages our world and therefore also that of our pets?
We absolutely think NOT!
Banning all plastic at once is an impossible task. But we'd love to give you some tips on how you and your four-legged friend can make the planet just that little bit greener:
- Buy treats from bulk bins (like the treats at Kruidvat 😉)
- Choose food and snacks in sustainable packaging. Be sure to take a look at the pet food you use to see how sustainable it is.
- Or for the kitchen princes/princesses among us, you can always pamper your pet with homemade snacks.
- Replace the plastic food bowl with a bowl made from materials that are harmless to nature. Like one of our unique, handmade dog or cat bowls made from natural stone materials that are not only eco-friendly but also naturally antibacterial and temperature-regulating, keeping your pet's food fresher longer.
- Share your green journey with fellow pet parents! Join online communities or local pet groups to exchange sustainable tips and inspire others. When we share our small wins, they multiply into bigger environmental impact.
But don't forget… not only the packaging, but also the food itself weighs heavily on the environment. Meat-eaters like dogs and cats have a big influence on this. But the choice between dry and wet food also matters. Dry food is less burdensome to the environment and also keeps longer. Just like with humans, there are also environmentally friendly variants in pet food; you can incorporate food with less meat, organic food, vegetarian food, or even food based on insects into your pet's diet.
The best part? Many sustainable swaps actually save money long-term. Durable natural bowls last years longer than plastic ones, homemade treats cost less than packaged ones, and buying in bulk reduces per-unit costs. Your wallet and the planet both win!
A more sustainable life seems difficult, but it certainly doesn't have to be. Making small changes is already a big step in the right direction towards a healthier world. Start with just one tip from this list – your pet and the planet will thank you for it!
