As pet owners, we buy the healthiest, most natural pet foods and treats, but what about other pet products? If you have wished for a company that makes eco-friendly pet products that won’t break the bank, you will love Wagging Green. Not only are their products, such as collars, leashes and toys, made in the United States and finished by hand before they arrive on your doorstep, but the company itself is committed to an eco-friendly philosophy and sustainable business [...]]]>

As pet owners, we buy the healthiest, most natural pet foods and treats, but what about other pet products? If you have wished for a company that makes eco-friendly pet products that won’t break the bank, you will love Wagging Green. Not only are their products, such as collars, leashes and toys, made in the United States and finished by hand before they arrive on your doorstep, but the company itself is committed to an eco-friendly philosophy and sustainable business practices. In addition, Wagging Green ships all products within the U.S. for free and offer low international shipping rates, too.

With the fashion design training of owner Sonya Sargent, and the art and design background of Marketing Director Tony Strong, the products offered by Wagging Green are both stylish and eco-friendly. Each product is made from all natural cotton or 100% bamboo fiber. Wagging Green also shows a commitment to eco-consciousness by donating 5% of their profits to environmental causes including non-polluting energy research and forest conservation. That makes each collar, leash or toy better for your pet and better for the planet. The Wagging Green product line also has a lower environmental impact than products with a petroleum base, helping reduce your pet’s eco footprint!

At Wagging Green, pet owners can find collars, leashes, IDs and charms, harnesses, cat collars, and squeaky chew toys. All products are made with the most natural ingredients available and are finished by hand before being shipped to your home for free, if you live within the U.S.  All collars and leashes are made from organic bamboo or natural cotton. The use of bamboo fiber benefits the environment and your pet. Bamboo fiber is used for webbing to back the company’s collars and, according to Wagging Green, is anti-bacterial, odor resistant, absorbent and biodegradable. The fibers are also made without the use of pesticides, insecticides or fertilizers.

Aside from being made with eco-friendly materials, Wagging Green products also help customers make a valuable contribution to important causes. The “Saving the Earth” collection of dog and cat collars each support a different cause, reflected by the design of the collar. A few examples include:

• The Save the Pack collar, which benefits organizations dedicated to helping endangered wildlife
• The Making Waves collar helps fund clean water projects
• The Love Dog collar helps provide funding for spaying, neutering and animal welfare
• The Fresh in the City collar benefits clean air initiatives
• The Solar Powered Pooch collar promotes solar energy

Wagging Green also has a recycling policy that is unique and beneficial to customers and their pets. Instead of disposing of a collar that is no longer usable, Wagging Green asks that customers fill out a recycling form and send it along with the old collar to them, and they will fashion a new one that reuses the old collar’s hardware for 25% off the cost of a new collar. The company ships the “new” collar to you, and your pup can wear his good-as-new collar for a long time to come!

Wagging Green isn’t just about collars and leashes, either. The Wagging Green harnesses come in several sizes and are all made from the sturdy organic bamboo fiber. Customers can also purchase an enamel and metal ID tag or charm, which includes a fun design of your choosing and the engraving of your dog’s name and a phone number included in the price of the tag. Chew toys for dogs are bone shaped and come in several colors. All are made out of fleece and filled with recycled fiber. So whether you need to outfit a new puppy with her own collar and leash, or would like to purchase a pet product that aligns with your eco-friendly lifestyle, Wagging Green has just what you need for a stylish, eco-friendly and budget-friendly pet product experience.

Just as we have become more discriminating about the foods and products we buy for ourselves, we are also actively seeking out healthier natural products for our pets. EcoPure Naturals offers pet products that are filled with real ingredients derived from nature rather than chemicals or artificial fillers. According to OurPet’s, the parent company of the ecoPure Naturals brand, “The ecoPure® Naturals’ mission is to provide products that help ‘improve the health, safety, comfort and enjoyment of pets,’ and natural [...]]]>

Just as we have become more discriminating about the foods and products we buy for ourselves, we are also actively seeking out healthier natural products for our pets. EcoPure Naturals offers pet products that are filled with real ingredients derived from nature rather than chemicals or artificial fillers. According to OurPet’s, the parent company of the ecoPure Naturals brand, “The ecoPure® Naturals’ mission is to provide products that help ‘improve the health, safety, comfort and enjoyment of pets,’ and natural products do just this. Pets are treated as members of the family and deserve the very best natural products.”

Using natural plant-derived ingredients, in place of the ingredients found in many other pet products, can reduce the risks that come from using artificial or chemical ingredients over time. Incidences of pet cancer, diabetes and other diseases are becoming more common in household pets, and it leaves many wondering if artificial ingredients and harmful chemicals could be a culprit. Natural ingredients in pet treats and pet care items make better sense for our beloved pets and also places less of a burden on the environment due to the sustainability of natural ingredients.

The ecoPure Naturals products include shampoo and skin care, aromatherapy, ear care, flea and tick products, odor and spot control products, appetite enhancers and supplements. Pet owners know exactly what they are feeding to or using on their pets, thanks to ecoPure Naturals’ informative website. Each product is listed with the ingredients it contains, and the main “active natural” item is highlighted with an explanation of the benefits of using that particular ingredient. Many of the ecoPure products are for cats as well as dogs, including the shampoos, flea and tick products, appetite enhancers and supplements. Choosing the correct item is made easy, since all of the products feature a helpful cat or dog graphic to show which pet the item is intended for.

What will customers find in the listing of natural ingredients? Flea and tick control products’ active natural ingredient may be cloves, thyme or castor oil. The spot and odor control features natural enzymes rather than harsh chemicals. Dog treats include a list of healthy and tasty ingredients that sound good enough for us to eat, including pomegranate, pumpkin, blueberry and peanut butter. Pets will feel as relaxed and pampered as we do after a day at the spa once they are bathed with herbal or aromatherapy shampoo and conditioner. Dogs can keep that relaxed feeling and pleasant scent all the time with the aromatherapy sprays made with essential oils of sage and lavender.

In addition to providing natural, green solutions to pet owners, ecoPure Naturals is focused on green delivery methods, too. In 2009, the brand received the “Delivered Green” award from CaseStack. In order to receive the award, companies must use sustainable transportation methods for 40% of their shipments for the entire year. They are then designated as a CaseStack certified Green Carrier.

Pet owners are carefully choosing trusted pet products, just as they do for other family members. Making these choices becomes easier when pet owners find a company that is as concerned for pet health and the environment as they are. With EcoPure Naturals products, good pet care really does come naturally!

Many times, the image of a pet boarding facility brings to mind pets kept in fencing or cages and taken out a few times a day for a walk. The pets are warm, dry and fed, but they are also often bored and lonely. Not all pet boarding facilities are like this, however, and a new pet facility located in Millstone Township, New Jersey hopes to change the idea of pet boarding forever. The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel [...]]]>  

Many times, the image of a pet boarding facility brings to mind pets kept in fencing or cages and taken out a few times a day for a walk. The pets are warm, dry and fed, but they are also often bored and lonely. Not all pet boarding facilities are like this, however, and a new pet facility located in Millstone Township, New Jersey hopes to change the idea of pet boarding forever. The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel is more than “just” a pet boarding facility, although even if it was, it would be a comfortable, friendly, welcoming facility that your pet would look forward to visiting. The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel goes beyond both pets and owners expectations by also offering exercising, grooming and training in addition to its boarding facilities. In fact, it is a one stop shop for pets that need pampering, training, exercise, socialization, rehabilitation and a good friendly pat!

What makes the Green Leaf Pet Resort so special? It starts with the two humans in charge. In the pet world, Shelly Leibowitz is a respected and trusted name for his work with dogs, which ranges from importing and breeding to working with police, fire and K-9 units. He is also a well respected trainer with a unique approach to working with all kinds of dogs, including those with severe or “problem” behaviors. He uses training methods that rely on positive reinforcement and a deep understanding of each pet’s individual personality rather than punishment or dominance. His business partner, Gale Dinces, is a highly respected veteran of both the business and real estate world who turned to her true passion, dog breeding and showing, and partnered with Shelly Liebowitz to create The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel. Together, they hope to provide a pet facility that is unlike any other.

Further setting The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel apart from other pet facilities is the care and thought that went into creating the facility itself. Set on 56 acres that gives dogs plenty of room to roam, play and train, the physical setting has as many amenities as many resort destinations for people. There is a 4,500-square foot “play arena,” plus a 1,500-square foot grooming spa. In addition, a planned aquatic center will be open by mid-2012 to provide aquatic play and training opportunities. The pet enclosures, far from being cages, are comfortable glass-enclosed “suites” that feature cozy beds for dogs to relax on. Products used at the pet spa are gentle and hypo-allergenic, with care and attention given to each dog’s individual grooming needs. All of the flooring in the facility was carefully chosen cushioned vinyl that has the look of hardwood, the easy care and cleanup of vinyl and the comfort of walking on of a plush carpet. In the facility’s agility center, dogs are treated to endless training or play opportunities, all on an EVA polymer Agiliflex flooring that is easy and safe for dogs to run on.

Dogs using The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel as a boarding facility are welcome to use the Agility center and outdoor training facility for fun and exercise, but that is not the only reason these amenities are located here. The Green Leaf also provides training, rehabilitation and exercising opportunities for dogs, and all of the state-of-the-art facilities necessary are located on the 56-acre property. Whether training for agility trials, learning obedience or learning to track scents and train for law enforcement work, dogs of all shapes and sizes can come to The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel to become better skilled or more obedient dogs in a positive, affectionate setting. The center also offers training in Schutzhund, a competitive sport used to train dogs for law enforcement work that was used historically for German Shepherds. If you are looking for a talented and companionable dog of your own, The Green Leaf Pet Resort can help you locate the dog of your dreams. As an experienced importer of show and working dogs from Europe, Shelly Liebowitz will help match you with the perfect fit in breed, temperament and personality for your family.

For a truly luxurious and unique experience for your dog, The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel offers friendly service, impeccable care and guaranteed companionship for a weekend or a week. If you are looking for a facility that can help you turn your family dog into a happier and better trained animal, a show dog, agility champion or highly skilled guard or companion dog, The Green Leaf Pet Resort will work with your dog to provide individualized instruction that supports your animal’s personality, temperament and skill level. For both dogs and owners, The Green Leaf Pet Resort & Hotel will provide an experience unlike any other.

Where do pet owners find all the latest news and information on the health, nutrition and training of their dogs and cats? Over one million pet owners turn to Animal Wellness Magazine. From dealing with health conditions to dental care to the best new health and wellness products, Animal Wellness covers everything you need to know to keep your cat or dog healthy, happy and well-behaved.

In order to help you take care of your dogs or cats in the best [...]]]>

Where do pet owners find all the latest news and information on the health, nutrition and training of their dogs and cats? Over one million pet owners turn to Animal Wellness Magazine. From dealing with health conditions to dental care to the best new health and wellness products, Animal Wellness covers everything you need to know to keep your cat or dog healthy, happy and well-behaved.

In order to help you take care of your dogs or cats in the best way possible, Animal Wellness puts a wealth of information at your fingertips. Up-to-date information on the latest research in animal medicine, therapies and treatments helps keep your pet in tip-top shape. The magazine also focuses on a holistic approach to pet wellness, with information on alternative therapies such as massage, acupressure and magnet therapy. In each issue, a mixture of medically sound information and helpful alternative health ideas help you determine the best approach to your pet’s personal wellness plan. Training articles help you understand what your pet’s behavior really means and the best approaches to dealing with unwanted behaviors. You can also find information on the work of important pet organizations, pet adoption, and information about what the people who work to promote animal welfare are doing across the country.

If you’ve visited a pet store recently, you know that there is a vast selection of pet products to choose from. Sometimes the choice can seem overwhelming, with questions about effectiveness and the best value for the price playing a role in which product to choose. As a resource for pet owners, Animal Wellness Magazine also tackles the question of the best and most effective animal products in its pages with product reviews and recommendations backed by the “Animal Wellness Approved” seal. Need a therapeutic pet bed? Want to know which dog treats are tasty and preservative free? Are supplements worth it, and which ones are effective? You can find the answers to these questions in the magazine and on the Animal Wellness magazine website. From tasty animal treats to products designed to make pet’s and owner’s lives easier, the magazine strives to be your go-to source for trusted product advice.

Whether you love to receive your magazine in the mail or would rather keep up with your subscription on your favorite digital device, Animal Wellness Magazine offers options for every pet owner. The magazine lets subscribers choose to receive a regular subscription or a digital subscription. The digital option allows subscribers to enjoy the magazine in their favorite type of viewing device. The magazine sends an email with the magazine download link when each bi-monthly issue is released, plus subscribers have access to all the back issues of the magazine online. Not only does this option allow subscribers to read any of the magazine’s issues at anytime, it also means an environmentally friendly subscription that reduces paper and ink use.

Subscriptions for Animal Wellness are under $20 per year, and significantly less for a digital subscription. Also available are Equine Wellness and Feline Wellness magazines for health and wellness information specifically for horses and cats. You can visit the website at www.animalwellnessmagazine.com.

Do you know what is in your pet’s treats? If you buy conventional pet food products or pet treats, you might be dismayed to learn what your pet is actually consuming. Conventional pet food products may contain pesticides, toxic fertilizers, and genetically engineered ingredients. Even certified organic pet foods contain unhealthy ingredients such as sweeteners and allergens. Thankfully there is a better option. Onesta Organics, a small company that produces high-quality small pet treats, can be a great food supplement [...]]]>  

Do you know what is in your pet’s treats? If you buy conventional pet food products or pet treats, you might be dismayed to learn what your pet is actually consuming. Conventional pet food products may contain pesticides, toxic fertilizers, and genetically engineered ingredients. Even certified organic pet foods contain unhealthy ingredients such as sweeteners and allergens. Thankfully there is a better option. Onesta Organics, a small company that produces high-quality small pet treats, can be a great food supplement for your dog, cat or rodent.

Dr. Heidi Junger, like many pet owners, was frustrated with the quality of foods available for purchase. Her vision of certified organic pet foods that contain high quality ingredients, manufactured in a safe, pet and eco-friendly facility, did not exist. Using her background as a zoologist and pet lover to guide her, she decided to create and sell her own pet food products – and Onesta Organics was born. Today, the small but successful company is the first pet food manufacturer in the United States that is certified organic and Green America approved. The difference between Onesta Organics and other pet food manufacturers, even “organic” ones, is what goes into the food and how the food is manufactured.

Onesta Organics firmly believes that just because a food item is created for a pet, that doesn’t mean the standards for quality should be any different. In fact, much of what is created in Onesta’s facilities is human grade. The meat in Onesta’s foods is human grade, free range, pasture fed and certified organic. The pet foods also contain vegetables, fruits, grass and seeds. Every item offered contains at least 95% of USDA certified organic ingredients. Onesta Organics chooses to formulate their foods in this manner because it’s better for healthy pets. This type of pet food supports their immune systems and promotes longevity. It’s also better for the environment. Using fresh whole ingredients that are available locally with minimal processing creates sustainability.

Onesta Organics pet foods are handcrafted and created using raw food dehydration methods. This approach to pet food manufacturing is quite different from many pet food manufacturers where the ingredients are processed in large batches at high temperatures and stored in warehouses for long periods of time. In Onesta’s facilities, small batches of food are created using fresh whole ingredients. Their low temperature dehydration methods enable nutrient retention and the ability to use cold storage for the finished product. Also, the facilities where Onesta’s food is created were commended by the USDA for being more sanitary and cleaner than many places that manufacture human foods!

As pet lovers, we all want to help our pets live full, happy, and healthy lives free of diseases and medical conditions. Caring for our pets starts at home with a prevention program aimed at keeping our pets healthy. The best way to do this is to pay close attention to what we feed our pets. According to Dr. Junger, this can be a slippery slope for pet owners who must wade through claims from companies that their foods are “organic,” “raw,” or “natural.” Many of the claims made by companies can’t be backed up when researched further. Onesta Organics makes it easy for their customers to know what is in the products they are purchasing, and why this is important, through information available on their website and blog. There is a wealth of information on certified organic foods, pet health issues, and how to supplement your pet’s diet with Onesta Organics treats. When pet owners have the information and tools they need, they can make an informed safe choice for their pet, and pets receive treats that are tasty and healthy!

Most of Bark’s pet foods and animal treats are organic and free of hormones and antibiotics, and the store’s toys and pet accessories are typically made from organic or recycled materials.  The entire Bark! lineup reflects their environmental and socially responsible ethics, including products that are [...]]]> From organic rabbit food to locally made organic dog treats, Bark! is the premier destination for discerning pet owners in the Baltimore-Washington area.  Bark! specializes in premium, human-grade products for dogs, cats, and small animals.

Most of Bark’s pet foods and animal treats are organic and free of hormones and antibiotics, and the store’s toys and pet accessories are typically made from organic or recycled materials.  The entire Bark! lineup reflects their environmental and socially responsible ethics, including products that are locally made or fairly traded.

For Your Pooch

Bark! carries a wide range of supplies for dogs.  You’ll find a terrific selection of foods and treats, including canned, dry, and freeze-dried varieties.  Reward your four-legged friend with organic frozen yogurt by Yoghund or let him indulge with a dinner of locally made Aunt Jeni’s Home Made dog food.  Premium toys and bedding are also available at Bark!, including organic cotton and recycled plastic products from some of our favorite manufacturers like West Paw Design and Jax & Bones.

For the Finicky Feline

Cat merchandise is just as carefully selected at Bark!  Natural and organic cat foods with high-protein human grade meats are available from brands like Innova and ZiwiPeak, who uses only free range meat products in their feed.  You will also find organic catnip and natural salmon treats to please even the pickiest cats.  Barks! has a wide selection of locally made eco-friendly toys for your feline as well.

Other Products from Bark!

Besides premium food, treats, and toys for your cats and dogs, you can also find the best eco-friendly supplies for your other animal friends at Bark!  Organic or natural foods and bedding are available for birds, rabbits, hamsters and guinea pigs, chinchillas, mice, rats, gerbils, and ferrets.

Shop at Bark!

Bark! has 2 eco-friendly pet supply stores in the Baltimore-Washington area.  In Clarksville, you’ll find the store in the Conscious Corner of the Clarksville Square Shopping Center.  In Onley, a Bark! store is located at 16822 Georgia Avenue.

If you’re a bird-loving resident of Massachusetts and you’ll be traveling soon, you may be wracking your brain to figure out what you’ll do with your beloved winged pets.  While there are many eco-friendly pet sitting options for dogs and cats, bird owners are often left trying to find a family member or friend knowledgeable enough to bird-sit. Luckily, Jenn McKay of The Bird Guru has offered an alternative for bird owners who want to leave their pets in [...]]]>

If you’re a bird-loving resident of Massachusetts and you’ll be traveling soon, you may be wracking your brain to figure out what you’ll do with your beloved winged pets.  While there are many eco-friendly pet sitting options for dogs and cats, bird owners are often left trying to find a family member or friend knowledgeable enough to bird-sit. Luckily, Jenn McKay of The Bird Guru has offered an alternative for bird owners who want to leave their pets in an eco-friendly, loving environment.

Eco-Friendly Bird Boarding

While The Bird Guru offers bird-sitting in your home, you can also board your birds at their location in Sudbury, Massachusetts.  Services include:

* Organic and Fresh Vegetables and Fruits at meal times.  This includes cooked foods twice a day.

* Changing of Dry Food and Water at Least Twice Daily

* Timed Lights to Ensure Equal Periods of Sleeping and Waking

* Bird-Safe Cleaners Used on Cages

* Out of Cage Time for Birds Unless Otherwise Instructed

* Daily Showers and Baths for Birds

* Humidification for Winter Months

Every measure is taken to ensure that your birds are lovingly cared for in a clean, healthy environment.  The Bird Guru has an avian air filtration system that features an internal germicide UV light.  This keeps the bird room dust and odor-free, as well as kills viruses, fungi and bacteria.  Every bird kept by The Bird Guru is checked for a current health certificate, and an experienced staff cares for the birds at all times. In addition, foraging activities are provided for each bird daily.

Types of Birds

The Bird Guru provides boarding services for finches, canaries, some lovebirds, budgies, cockatiels, parrotlets, larger parakeets, conures, small poicephalus, ringnecks, pionus, lories, eclectus, mini-macaws, amazons and greys. The price for boarding depends on the size of the bird and the needed care.

Extras

In addition to providing eco-friendly bird boarding, The Bird Guru travels and holds several types of classes and informational seminars to help you care for your bird to the best of your ability.  From behavior training to bird grooming to cage cleaning information, The Bird Guru educates individuals in Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts regularly and in Vermont, New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island occasionally.  You can learn more by visiting their website.

Image Credits: Kinez on Flickr – http://www.flickr.com/photos/yay/

A Green Commitment

Green Dog is committed to delivering high-quality pooch care by using natural, holistic goods and [...]]]> With a “unique, progressive approach” towards canine services, Green Dog, Inc. offers residents in Chicago a place to entrust the care of their dogs to professionals that offer day care, dog walking, and boarding services. Situated in what is known as Chicago’s Ukrainian Village, the Green Dog Inc. facility is eco-friendly – providing a healthy environment for your loyal companions, humans, and the planet.

A Green Commitment

Green Dog is committed to delivering high-quality pooch care by using natural, holistic goods and equipment. The result creates a low-stress environment for dogs that involves non-toxic, plant-based cleaning methods; non-toxic toys; and all-natural foods. Thanks to the water and air filter systems, Green Dog provides clean water and fresh air. Other eco-friendly features include:

* The remodeling of the Green Dog Inc. facility uses earth-friendly building materials, such as paint, caulk, and wood stain.

* Kennels are constructed out of recycled composite. The indoor floor for dogs uses recycled materials. Outside, the animals romp about a surface comprised of recycled rubber pavers.

* Only biodegradable poop bags are used to clean up pet waste.

* Dog walkers often arrive at the houses of clients by way of bicycle, instead of driving a gas-guzzling car.

* The office practices recycling and uses recycled office supplies and products.

Green Dog Inc. Services

From taming the wildest puppy to making sure your dog receives an ample amount of daily exercise, Green Dog Inc. offers an array of services. For starters, they have a Green Dog Daycare Program that aims to strengthen positive canine behavior. Green Dog recognizes the need to feed the highly social side of dogs with constructive mingling with other four-legged friends. A doggie pool and positive games are a few activities a dog may look forward to. Pets also enjoy peaceful napping sessions with aromatherapy and classical music. A minimum stay of two days each week is required to participate.

The Green Dog Walking Service power-walks dogs in groups of two or three with the option for individual strolls. At the same time, your dog learns the finer points of good leash and social skills. If you are in need of overnight accommodations, the Green Dog Bed & Breakfast provides personalized attention in an environment that feels just like home. Expect toys, exercise, comfortable dog beds, all-natural treats, and a premium diet during their stay. The facility offers around-the-clock care for overnight guests.

If you’d like to stop by Green Dog to check out their facilities, their general office is open from Monday to Friday (7-10 a.m. and 4-7 p.m.), and Saturday and Sunday (9-10 a.m. and 5-6 p.m.). Weekends and tours are available by appointment only.

Contact Information

Green Dog Inc.
2231 W. Chicago Ave.
Chicago, IL 60622
Phone: (773) 772-4877

Photo Credit: Green Dog Inc.

Sustainable Pet Design is behind the Greenrroof Animal Home, custom-built pet lodging appropriately sized to meet your dog’s needs. You choose the style [...]]]> Forget the drab wooden doghouse taking up space in the backyard. Sure, it’s functional and classic, but if you’re looking for something that pleases you and the environment as much as your dog, consider customized pet lodging by Sustainable Pet Design. The doghouses double as a work of art – one that also incorporates nature into its design.

Sustainable Pet Design is behind the Greenrroof Animal Home, custom-built pet lodging appropriately sized to meet your dog’s needs. You choose the style of home you’d like created, as well as the color and plant types. If you have a vision for the perfect eco-friendly pet lodging – the company will turn your personal requests into the talk of the neighborhood. Construction is performed by hand; meaning your pet home is a one-of-a-kind creation.

What is a Green Roof?

Sustainable Pet Design uses a green roof to combine nature with functional pet lodging. A Green Roof is a “vertical extension of the roof of a structure” that consists of vegetation, filter membrane, drainage layer, growing medium, and waterproofing. It’s the same concept humans relied on thousands of years ago. The modern version of the green roof you see today was developed in Germany during the 1960s.

Choosing native plants for your gardens and other outdoor spaces provides a habitat conducive to native insects and birds. Simply water the green roof regularly for about six months to establish the plants. After this period of care, the vegetation should thrive with very little attention. Local customers have placed orders up to 90 days in advance to receive a sustainable pet home with vegetation already in full bloom.

Non-Toxic Materials

Sustainable Pet Design homes rely on non-toxic materials, including untreated red cedar planks, beeswax waterproofing, and zero-VOC paint. No pressure-treated wood is used in the construction of pet houses because they often contain harmful chemicals. Instead, homes are made out of naturally rot-resistant red cedar, which lasts about 15 to 20 years. It is suggested to apply a finish every two years to extend the life of your pet home. The company also uses recycled wood coated with zero-VOC sealant, which prevents toxins from off-gassing.

The Obama Dog House

There are plenty of eye-catching Sustainable Pet Design models to select, but one that truly captures the attention of passersby is the Obama Dog House. Constructed with the President in mind, the company hopes the doghouse will help spread the word about using eco-friendly practices and materials. The first example of the Obama Dog House was constructed out of donated materials, including greenroof plants, eco-friendly paint, and historic wood. It features a Greek Revivial architectural style

Other Sustainable Pet Design Gems

Sustainable Pet Design additionally offers green birdhouses and a line of Couture Homes for pet owners to browse, including:

15° Wright: This modern home with all angles at 15 degrees was originally commissioned by architect Eric Lloyd Wright (Frank’s grandson), who wished to display it with one of his prefab human homes at the Green West Expo. Prices for this model are: Extra Small ($2000), Small ($2300), Medium ($2600), Large ($2900), and Extra Large ($3200).

Dog Barn: A mini barn topped with attractive greenery just for your pooch. The pet home also functions as a place for birds to sit a spell. Two perches are conveniently situated away from the doghouse entrance. Prices include: Extra Small ($1000), Small ($1150), Medium ($1300), Large  ($1450), and Extra Large ($1600).

Goth Cathedral: Constructed in the shape of a cathedral, this pet home for birds offers a sizeable opening in the front and two perches attached to the back. Prices: Extra Small ($1500), Small ($1800), Medium ($2100), Large  ($2300), and Extra Large ($2600).

Getting Your Sustainable Pet Lodging

Residents of California have the luxury of enjoying planted houses at their fingertips, where all vegetation is carefully inspected and planted. For customers living outside of California, Sustainable Pet Design homes are shipped unplanted, arriving waterproofed. Shipped doghouses come with drainage material, filter fabric, and a special soil mix. The company is also more than happy to supply you with sources of native plants in your region.

To inquire about a green pet home, send an email to Sustainable Pet Design.

In order to contribute to a long, happy life for pets, an increasing amount of owners are turning towards the magic of natural, eco-friendly, and holistic pet food. While natural edibles for pets typically cost more, gourmet selections achieve much more than pampering a pet. A healthier combination of ingredients has the power to extend the life of pets, as well as prevent medical conditions, like cancer, allergies, and arthritis. Below you will find a list of luxury pet foods [...]]]>

In order to contribute to a long, happy life for pets, an increasing amount of owners are turning towards the magic of natural, eco-friendly, and holistic pet food. While natural edibles for pets typically cost more, gourmet selections achieve much more than pampering a pet. A healthier combination of ingredients has the power to extend the life of pets, as well as prevent medical conditions, like cancer, allergies, and arthritis. Below you will find a list of luxury pet foods finding innovative ways to safely please the palate and maintain the health of our furry companions.

Innova Holistic Dog and Cat Food

From the Nutrient-Enhanced Innova Flex stews to tasty solutions for overweight dogs, Innova takes full advantage of healthy ingredients found in the meat, dairy, vegetables, fruit and grain food groups. Combined with essential fats and oils, this pet food brand packs quite a nutritional punch for your dog or cat. I’d also like to point out a unique addition to Innova pet foods – their use of Vitamin E for natural preservation. This essential antioxidant is known to fight free radicals, as well as protect cells and tissues from damage. When mixed with Vitamin C (or ascorbic acid) and rosemary extract, Vitamin E is an impressive, all-natural food preservative. A few Innova pet products to consider include:

• Low Fat Adult Dry Dog Food: Containing 35% less fat than other adult brands, dogs also benefit from the combination of fresh meats, vegetables, fruits, dairy and grains.
• Large Breed Senior Flex Beef & Barley Stew: With added DHA and EPA, older dogs obtain an extra boost to improve brain function, as well as receive more fiber that aids in digestion.
• Innova Cat Treats: Offers healthy ingredients representing all essential food groups, important fatty acids, fresh-farm ingredients, and a rich source of Vitamin E.

Karma Organic Food for Dogs

With the motto,” Good for the Body. Good for the Soul. Good for the Environment.” – how can you resist the luxury line of dry dog food and treats by Karma Organic. Using the highest quality ingredients, this company has created an organic brand of “super-premium dog food.” You just can’t ignore the health factor of using 95% USDA-Certified Organic ingredients.

Absent of artificial preservatives, flavorings and fillers, Karma Organic Food is filled with organic oats, brown rice, and free-range organic chicken. Other ingredients include organic blueberries, carrots, and spinach. The whole, raw fruits and vegetables contained in the dog food delivers an anti-aging boost of nutrients, antioxidants and phytochemicals. In addition to its organic qualities, Karma Organic also adheres to the strictest of manufacturing standards in an effort to place less strain on the environment.

California Natural Pet Food

California Natural Pet Food offers a wide selection of natural dog food, cat food, puppy food, and dog treats that doesn’t rely on fillers, by-products or artificial preservatives to make their brand tasty. Instead, they use wholesome, unrefined pet food ingredients that aim to prevent allergic reactions or agitate pets with sensitive stomachs. If you’re looking for one of the best hypoallergenic pet food brands on the market, look no further than California Natural Pet Food. A sample of their products include:

• Lamb Meal & Rice Adult Large Bites: Dry dog food using 100% lamb meal combined with white and brown rice, and sunflower oil.
• Herring & Sweet Potato Adult: Dry dog food offering highly digestible herring for protein and essential fats with a boost in nutrients and fiber from sweet potato. A salmon and sweet potato option is also available.
• Venison & Brown Rice: This interesting canned cat and kitten food mixture is sure to satisfy the pickiest the eaters.

Mother Nature Healthy Dog Treats

When Fido masters a new trick or simply bats his big brown eyes at you, a healthy dog treat is in order. Mother Nature Natural Dog Biscuits is the perfect way to reward your pooch with a flavorful, gourmet assortment packed with nutritional benefits. When you hear just some of the selections available, you’ll be surprised that these natural dog treats are especially made just for dogs. Options include:

• 4 Way Treat: Apples, cheese, chicken and turkey help keep teeth and gums healthy.
• Beef Stew: A blend of genuine sirloin beef and fresh vegetables.
• Buffalo Stew: A delectable combination of buffalo meat and stone ground grains.
• Carrot Cakes: A refreshing break from the norm with fresh carrots, molasses, real butter and milk.
• Chicken & Turkey: Real ground chicken and turkey mixed with whole cranberries and fresh carrots.
• Honey Glazed Chicken: Heighten your dogs taste buds with real ground chicken, real honey, whole apples and a touch of cinnamon.

EVO Premium Pet Food

Interested in feeding your pet a raw food diet? Gently prepared with love and concern for our four-legged friends, EVO Premium Pet Food boasts the “first grain-free ancestral diet” that offers modern nutritional benefits with natural ingredients that have been safely cooked. Providing pet owners with a complete and balanced natural approach to feeding dogs, cats, and even ferrets, take care in knowing that EVO pet food is grain-free, contains high-quality meats, and possesses the highest protein content of any meat-based dry pet food on the market.

With the Red Meat Large Bites dry dog food, your pet will enjoy four different red meat selections –beef, lamb, buffalo, and venison. EVO canned dog food selections include 95% beef, chicken, turkey, venison, duck, and rabbit. For cats, choose canned food that includes 95% chicken, turkey, and duck without the fillers and grains that other pet meals contain. When feeding your ferret, choose dry food that supplies a high protein, low carbohydrate diet comprised of raw food ingredients.

Image Credits: Naturapet