MoneySavers & Green Products...

I recently received an email from an aunt which contained photos of dogs decked out in their finest doggy apparel. Next to each adorable mut was a dry, sarcastic, first person (first dog?) account of how miserable and exploited he felt for being treated, well…like a real child.

So I got to thinking, while I don’t believe the pet fashion craze will be coming to an end anytime soon, perhaps this look could be transformed to be a bit more humble, more modest, and- dare I say- more eco-friendly. Thus began my search of the most considerate canine gear I could find.

The Earth Doggy was my first stop on this online shopping extravaganza, where I was given the choice of viewing all sorts of wear, from harness vests to evening wear. Not only does Earth Doggy feature all chemical free and earth-friendly products for their dogs, but they donate a portion of their proceeds to their local Humane Society! (http://www.earthdoggy.com)

The cleverly named A Bone to Pick has every item you could possibly imagine for your pooch. And if that weren’t enough, they have their very own dog blog. The clincher was the organic cotton dog tee with the slogan, ‘Be kind to mother earth.’ Any hip pooch sporting that shirt would certainly be a dog of a different breed! (www.abone-to-pick.com)

I could not resist The Cyber Canine, which even has vegan products for dogs.The company is called Mundo Botanical and claims that it is the first earth friendly botanical canine line. “Handcrafted with organic botanicals, aromatherapy grade essential oils and healing infused oils for your dog's continuing health and happiness since1997.” Chic, yet ethical. Perfection. (www.cybercanine.com)

The recycled rubber placemats made by O.R.E. are perfect. They’re non-skid mats that keep foodbowls from sliding all over the place and they can easily be wiped down or rinsed clean. O.R.E. is currently revamping it's website but you can find this cool product, made for both dogs and cats, at www.chimpfeet.com.

And lastly, so your dog has a cozy spot to cuddle up to at night, is Corda-Roy’s Bean Bag Bed. Humans are allowed in on this one too. In placement of the vinyl Styrofoam bags, they use shredded, polyurethane foam. “Made to last a lifetime,” they say, these bags are durable enough that they can have the classic bean bag chair shape and then fold out into a bed. I can hear the zzz’s already! (http://www.cordaroys.com)

These are just a few of the pet resources to check out on the Web. We mustn’t forget that our furry friends can be eco-friendly too. It’s all natural, it’s good for them, good for us, and of course better for Mother Earth. Baby steps count. Let’s get shopping!

Want to learn more about keeping your pet happy, healthy, and all-natural?

Organic Pet Food is Good Karma

Vegetarian Dog Owners Behold: The Recyclead!

Treat Your Pup to Some Eco-Treats

Recycled Cashmere For the Dog Who Has Everything

Paul Newman Keeps His Cats All-Natural