If you are trying to make less of a footprint on the Earth, then you may be changing some of your ways.  Instead of one “catch all” trash can, you may have three or four cans, each designated for a certain recyclable item.  Well, did you know that you can also be more eco-friendly with your dog’s supplies?  If you set aside a little bit of time, then you can find a ton of green pet products.  To make your search a tad easier, here are a few great suggestions for where your pooch rests his paws.

            Even though there are third-party organizations that set forth guidelines for “green” products, there are not set standards on what can be considered green.  Since you may not be an environmental engineer, then you may not know what is or isn’t environmentally friendly.  So, if you are wondering whether or not you should purchase an item, just look at the basics.  For instance, if it’s made of recyclable materials or can be recycled, then it is generally a better option than something that cannot be recycled or composted.  The following products are made with IntelliLoft material.  If you have any idea how long it takes for plastic to break down in a landfill, then you’ll probably appreciate this material.  IntelliLoft takes used plastic bottles and turns them into a soft, recycled polymer material.  It’s a good environmentally-friendly option not only because the plastic is kept out of the landfill, but also because less energy is used in the creation of the material (compared to creating the material from new, un-recycled products).  The material is used to stuff the bedding and cushion the pads.  It’s machine washable, and does not hold in odors.    

If your pet has multiple relaxation spots around your house, then why not make them all green?  Everything from his crate lining to his comfy bed can be purchased with the environment in mind.

Crate pads:  If your pup is still going through crate training, if your dog enjoys sleeping in his crate, or if you’re trying to make your pet’s crate more comfy for that summer vacation, then check out your green crate pad options.  The Barbados crate pad is perfect for any size pup!  You can choose from five different sizes and four different colors.  So, the pad will fit the crate and your décor.  Since the pads are lightweight and comfortable, they are great to take on trips.

If you have a room in your home where your dog loves to spend time but a dog bed is unnecessary, then consider using a crate pad in the place of a bed.  Your pet will love lying on the soft pad instead of the floor.  And, if company arrives, you can easily toss the pad in another room.

Beds:  We spoil our pooches!  If we have resting spots in multiple rooms of the house, then our pets probably do, too.  The great thing about dog beds is that you can find any color or style to match your and your pooch’s personalities.  If you like to mix and match colors and patterns, then consider the Striped Broadway bed.  The bed consists of a soft, outside wall and a cushiony, inside pillow.  The fun part is that you get to choose the color and pattern of the pieces separately!

            If your pet doesn’t like to be surrounded by a cushiony wall when he sleeps, then you should consider the Barbados Comfort bed.  This is a large rectangle bed that can be placed anywhere your pet likes to spend time.  The outer shell zips off, making it super easy to clean.  If you like rectangle bedding, but prefer an orthopedic type, then check out the Big Montana Dog Bed.

Blankets:  If you are taking a short trip and don’t have much room to pack, or if you are looking for a way to make your pet’s bed more comfortable, then don’t forget about the blanket!  The Big Montana blanket can be used in the bottom of a crate, over the seats in your vehicle, or anywhere your pet may want to rest his paws.

            Even the smallest efforts to help our environment can make a huge impact.  If you enjoy being “green,” then try to let your pet take part in the enjoyment.  Bedding is a great place to start your eco-friendly efforts.  Whether you are looking for a crate pad, bed, or blanket, it’s easy to find items to match your and your pup’s lifestyles.

This article was written by Stephanie Smith from Pet Super Store. A great website for automatic dog feeders, dog ramps and steps, and dog beds.