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Becoming a more sustainable pet parent

Becoming A More Sustainable Pet Parent

Updated On December 11th, 2024

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Reviewed By Francesca Mahoney

Protecting the health of our planet benefits us and our furry friends alike, not only because our pets are more likely to thrive in environments that are litter and pollution-free, but it can be an important element of a holistic approach to health and wellness. 

Happily, choosing a more sustainable lifestyle for your pet doesn’t mean compromising the quality or their favorite items, and in fact may promote better health and happier pets for years to come.

If you’re interested in becoming a more sustainable pet parent, the great news is that simple daily changes and product swaps can help make a big impact. Here are five easy ways you can jumpstart a more earth-friendly routine with your pet!  

1. Bring an extra bag and collect plastic waste on your daily walks 

Trash has many environmental and health impacts, including polluting water sources and harming wildlife. Nearly 25% of the world’s plastic waste is littered or not disposed of properly, and one-quarter of that makes its way into the environment, often in our own communities.

While not everyone has time to volunteer for a trash pick-up day, collecting some can become part of your daily routine with your pet. When you take your furry friend out on their walk, bring an extra bag and collect trash to dispose of properly at the end. It may seem like a small effort, but you’d be surprised by how much this can add up to over time!

Lastly, consider using biobased waste bags made from renewable sources in place of ones made up of single-use virgin plastic. So Phresh waste bags contain USDA certified biobased and renewable materials and are a great alternative to what you might be using today.

2. Switch to biodegradable cat litter

Cat owners are frequently changing litter, and traditional litter options can add up to a lot of waste over time. Thankfully, Petco stocks biodegradable kitty litter options so you can feel better about your cat’s impact on the earth. 

These cassava and corn-based litter formulas are dry, fast-forming and produce minimal dust, so choosing a more sustainable alternative doesn’t mean compromising quality. Another option is a flushable litter, such as one made from whole-kernel corn. Proven safe for septic and sewer systems, verified flushable options can even make for easier cleanup. 

For our smallest furry companions, So Phresh small animal recycled crumple paper bedding is a great option that’s organic, biodegradable and made from 100% post-consumer recycled paper. 

3. Buy in bulk

Our in-store treat buffet is a perfect way to show your pup a little extra love on any occasion. Just like bulk bins at your local grocer, buying pet treats in bulk minimizes the need for packaging and the number of trips you’ll need to take each month. 

Not only is this option better for the planet, but your dog can try many options to find their favorite. Choose from sweet or savory options or create your own mix-and-match bag. This is a great alternative for picky dogs that have often left you with barely touched bags of treats! From chicken-flavored joint support hearts to sandwich crème cookies, you’re sure to find treats your dog will love. 

We also provide a refillable cat litter station for our cat parents in all Petco stores. This minimizes the need for excess packaging since we provide a bucket for purchase that can be brought back to Petco every time you need to buy litter. It’s not only better for the planet, but it’s a more cost-effective option too! 

4. Support brands that are on a mission to help our planet

Petco is committed to growing its selection of sustainable products for all pets. Did you know we have an online sustainable product shop where you can find a selection of earth-conscious products? We have over a thousand products that meet our criteria for “Petco sustainable” and we are continuously expanding our assortment. 

Started as a Bottle is Petco’s line of toys and apparel made from recycled plastic bottles. You’d never know that the stylish cat and dog hoodie or butterfly cat toy was a bottle in a past life. Next time you’re picking up a colorful chew toy or adorable outfit for your pet, look for the Started as a Bottle logo.

Reddy provides a selection of amazing and trend-right products, including sustainable dog collars, made from recycled content.

We also offer more sustainable swaps for commonly-purchased pet items, like plant-based and alternative protein dog food, filled with health-supporting nutrients you expect. In our stores you’ll also find items made with natural materials, like certified B-Corp and recycled rubber toys, and Shameless Pet’s treats made from apple peels, squash and other nutritious ingredients that would have otherwise gone to waste. 

5. Help conserve water

How often have you heard not to let the water run while brushing your teeth? Conserve water by turning off the tap when lathering up your pup. You can also turn your dog’s bath into a mini pamper session by opting for a soothing, cruelty-free shampoo, like Well & Good Oatmeal Dog Shampoo, which is Leaping Bunny certified. IAnd if you prefer to have someone else handle the bath, we have in-store grooming salons featuring products that are free from parabens, phthalates, and chemical dyes.

Fun Fact
In select grooming salons, we dispense our shampoos within the water stream to reduce bathing time, and ultimately decrease water usage.   

We’re with you on your sustainable journey!

Petco is here to help you on your sustainable pet parent journey. As we continue to explore environmentally friendly products, you’ll be sure to find more ways to make more planet-friendly decisions for you and your pet. 

A sustainable lifestyle for you and your pet is about more than simply choosing planet-friendly products while you’re shopping. It’s about preserving the health of the planet and its ability to support all people and animals for generations to come. Thank you for doing your part in helping our beautiful planet! 

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