Introduction

Here at Miro & Makauri, we are trying our best to be a responsible company that looks at how we operate, what we produce, how we package our products while contributing to projects that help make a difference such as the Project Rhino K9 unit in South Africa which use dogs as essential tool to fight wildlife crime and reduce poaching: We Sponsor Project Rhino. Read about them here – Miro&Makauri

In essence we are trying to make improvements to help our customers (dog owners) to come on that journey with us and make more sustainable and responsible choices to help reduce the carbon ‘pawprint’ and minimize the environmental impacts of having a dog. In this article, we will explore five ways to be a more sustainable and environmentally responsible dog owner.

1. Choose Sustainable Dog Food

Selecting the right dog food can make a significant difference in your both your dog’s health and the impact on the natural environment - opt for sustainably sourced and locally produced dog food to reduce your pet's carbon footprint.

Even better is to incorporate vegetarian or vegan dog treats into your dog’s diet. Vegan dog treats help alleviate issues with traditional farming; using less land, no deforestation, and no use of antibiotics, while at the same time the production of vegan dog treats compared to meat-based also uses less water and produces less CO2 emissions.

Another sustainable alternative are dog treats and food comprised of insect-protein, which similar to vegan dog treats take up less land, uses less water and CO2 in the production chain compared to tradition meat based food and treats.

2. Reduce Single-Use Plastic

Plastic pollution is a significant environmental concern, and pet owners can contribute to the solution by reducing single-use plastic items. Swap out disposable doggy bags for biodegradable alternatives, or better yet, use a scoop and compostable bags. Choose stainless steel or glass bowls instead of plastic ones for your pet's food and water. Reusable, washable pet toys and grooming tools can also help cut down on plastic waste.

3. Adopt Eco-Friendly Grooming Habits

Bathing and grooming your dog is a regular task, and it can have a significant environmental impact. Use natural and biodegradable shampoos and grooming products to minimize the release of harmful chemicals into the water supply. When brushing your dog, consider saving their fur and using it for nesting material for birds or donating it to organizations that use it to create eco-friendly yarn for clothing.

4. Responsible Waste Management

Proper disposal of dog waste is crucial for maintaining a clean environment. Use biodegradable bags when picking up after your dog and dispose of waste in designated bins or compost it if your local regulations allow. Avoid flushing pet waste down the toilet, as it can harm water treatment systems and the environment. By managing dog waste responsibly, you prevent harmful bacteria and pollutants from entering water sources.

5. Eco-Conscious Dog Accessories

 

When choosing accessories for your dog, like collars, leashes, and bedding, opt for eco-friendly options. Look for products made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo. Consider buying durable, high-quality items that will last longer, reducing the need for replacements and lowering your overall environmental impact.

Conclusion

Companies that incorporate sustainability into their decisions and products can help consumers, in this case dog owners to make more sustainable choices and reduce dog ownership impacts on the environment.

At Miro & Makauri we are doing our best to help our customers to make those small changes, chiefly with our MaksPatch vegan dog treats and minimising single use plastic in our packaging.

As a dog owner, you have the power to make environmentally responsible choices that benefit not only your dog but also the planet. By incorporating sustainable dog food/treats, reducing single-use plastic, adopting eco-friendly grooming habits, practicing responsible waste management, and choosing eco-conscious dog accessories, you can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.