1: Poop…obviously.  If you don’t pick it up, it can pollute groundwater or end up on the bottom of your neighbor’s shoe. Pick that poop up with biodegradable bags, or even turn it into doggie poop compost.

2: Food. Pay close attention to what’s going into your dog’s food–that cheap bag of kibble might be chock-full of chemicals and additives. Consider all-natural, organic or home-made alternatives.

3: Toys. Cheap plastic toys contain cheap, often toxic ingredients. Consider buying toys made from recycled material.

4: Speaking of toys, make your own or give away used toys.

5: Check labels of shampoos, flea/tick products. Try to go as natural as possible–you’ll want to avoid chemicals such as DDVP, diazinon carbaryl, permethrin or propoxur (these are all typically found in flea and tick repellents). Lemon juice and water is a common anti-flea home remedy.

6: Spay or neuter. Simple concept: Reducing the animal population helps reduce the overall amount of waste.

7: Clean and natural. Consider all-natural cleaning products for pet messes on carpets and floors inside the house.

8: Trips in the car for dog-related reasons. Walk, don’t drive to that vet visit or groomer appointment, if possible. If that’s not an option, find ways to fit multiple errands into one trip. Vet visits and groomer trips usually take awhile, so drop your dog off and go get stuff done!

9: What’s outside counts, too. In addition to paying attention to what’s IN your pet’s food, look at the packaging. Minimal package is great, minimal packaging that’s recyclable is even better!

10: Spread the word to other pet owners! Let them know how easy it can be to “go eco” with your dog!