Make Your Own Eco-Friendly Pet Products

Did you know that more than half of Americans have pets? And for many of us, they are members of our family. Naturally, we not only want what’s best for our kids but what’s safe and healthy for our dogs too. Because the FDA and USDA only regulate some aspects of pet products, it’s hard to know with certainty where those products are made, with what care, and what ingredients actually make up those pet care items.

Betsey’s Organic Dog Treats 

Some dogs love eating anything and everything. So, instead of providing them with a toxin-filled chew toy, consider making organic treats made from real foods (plus, you won’t have to worry if your toddler mistakes it for a cookie!).

Based on the recipe by Jessica Disbrow Talley and Eric Talley in The Organic Dog Biscuit Cookbook, which Honest April follows pretty closely, she's found the honey to be optional when making the biscuits (your pup has preferences too!). If your furry friend loves peanut butter, feel free to add a little extra!

Ingredients

• 3 cups plain organic non-fat yogurt
• 1 cups organic peanut butter unsalted
• 1 Tablespoons organic honey

Directions

Combine all ingredients together and whisk thoroughly. Pour mixture into BPA-free ice cube trays and freeze solid (at least 2 hours). Pop out one cube at a time and serve to your pup.

Eco-friendly DIY Chew Toys

Pets (and kids) like to explore with their mouths and, unfortunately, they’ll chew on more than yummy treats. You can create healthy chew toys for you pets by cutting strips from old scarves, denim, or dish towels; braiding them together or tying into a secure knot; and using it for a fun game of tug-o-war or fetch. Similarly, you can clean out your closet and use your old clothes as the filling of a DIY dog bed.

Pampered Pet - Non-Toxic Pet Cleanser from Healthy Child, Healthy World: Creating a Cleaner, Greener, Safer Home

Because your dog is your best friend, we know you love to spoil it with attention. We’re guessing you (more than occasionally) let your pup curl up on your lap, sleep in your bed, and enjoy a good wrestling match with the kids. But the fur that makes your dog cozy also can carry with it a lot of dander, dust, and toxins. To reduce your family and dog’s exposure to any unwanted contaminants or allergens, wash your pet at least once a week using a non-toxic cleanser. In his book, Christopher shares that natural baby shampoo, non-toxic oil soap, or herbal shampoos and conditioners make for safe suds. Or he says you can make your own.

Ingredients

• ¼ teaspoon essential oil repellent (citronella, cedar wood, eucalyptus, rosemary, or bay leaf) — decrease the amount if your pet is extra-sensitive
• 1 teaspoon natural shampoo
• 1 cup water

Directions

Mix the solution thoroughly, pour over your pet, and massage it into its fur while avoiding its eyes and mouth. Allow the cleanser to sit a bit before rinsing. Towel dry and brush.

Have you made your own natural or eco-friendly pet products? We'd love to know.