ecoLIVING London

If you’re a dog owner, you’ve likely indulged Rover in a gift or two. A squeaky toy, perhaps? A fancy collar? Perhaps, you’re one of the North Americans who, by pampering your pooch, contribute to a roughly $45-billion industry. But discerning dog owners know that not just any toy will do. For one thing, some toys are toxic. And, just as our own products have a carbon footprint, dog toys leave a carbon pawprint that responsible owners aim to keep low. Fortunately, there are many responsible companies coming to market with toys that not only have high play value for your pet, but that are made with safe materials and – in many cases – are recycled, recyclable, or biodegradable.

Toys: Even elderly dogs act young again when presented with an irresistible toy. Unfortunately, too many dog toys are downright dangerous – made from chemical leaching plastics or with parts that easily break off when chewed. To ensure that you’re buying a toy that’s safe, stick to brands with a strong track record and from reputable retailers. Pam Wheelock, owner of Purrfectplay pet products suggests that shoppers become vigilant label readers: A toy made in China often contains heavy metals and toxic chemicals, she warns. Look for toys that are certified organic. She also recommends that dog owners do their own sniff test. A toy that smells heavily chemical likely is loaded with chemicals.

Pet accessories: The holidays are the perfect time to give Buster some bling in the form of a collar or leash. But rather than reaching for the standard polyester versions, consider items made of organic cotton, bamboo or hemp. All are grown without pesticides – a good thing for the planet and for those wearing the materials – and hemp, in particular, is one of the most durable fabrics available. What this means is that the leash you buy now can still be walking dogs a decade from now. Unless of course you canine likes to chew, in which case, wouldn’t you rather he was chewing on material that didn’t contain pesticides or wasn’t a petroleum product? Olive Green Dog is an online company that boasts eco-friendly products – including a collar and leash that boldly proclaims your pooch to be an “Eco Dog.”

Travel gear: If you and your dog love to hit the trail, treat him to some great on- the-go goodies. PlanetDog offers up some awesome products, such as portable dog bowls that are PVC-free. Polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, is a chemical that often contains lead (which we know is bad!). It’s toxic from manufacture through to disposal. The company also has great dog “shammies” – perfect for drying off a dog who loves to swim. It’s made from 100 percent recycled wood chips and will absorb 10x its weight.

Sweet smelling stuff: Keep Fido fresh with shampoos and sprays that are free from harmful chemicals. Steer clear of anything containing coloring, preservatives or non- natural fragrance (usually just listed as “fragrance” rather than a specific “lavendar oil”). Since your dog will inevitably lick their fur, ensure that ingredients are organic and biodegradable.

Leslie Garrett is an award-winning journalist and author of The Virtuous Consumer: Your Essential Shopping Guide for a Better, Kinder, Healthier World (and one our kids will thank us for!). She lives with her family in London, Ontario.