Pets are great, they give unconditional love and are just fun to have around. Pet ownership comes with many responsibilities but the rewards are, for pet lovers, well worth it. When it comes to sustainable living, you can include your pet in your eco-friendly lifestyle and it's easier than you think.

It's a dirty job

But you really have to do it, clean up after your pet that is. Dog duty is usually the top concern since it affects anyone else who wants to use the sidewalk or the park. More than just an inconveinence, dog feces is a source of water pollution. When left unattended, dog feces can send unwanted compounds into stormwater runoff and eventually into natural water bodies. Anything your dog ingests - and for some of you lord only know what your dog eats - will become part of its lawn legacy, even medications like dewormers.

There are a couple ways to handle the remains of the dog days that are a little better for the earth. For starters, if you walk your dog regularly outside your property and need to pick up after them you can use biodegradable bags. These products work just as well as regular plastic bags but take a few hundred years less to break down.

If your dog's domain is the backyard opt for a compost solution. This would not be a compost for a vegetable garden but it will help break down the doo without ruining the waterways. You can build an above ground compost designated for doggies or there are several companies who sell an underground compost bin for dog feces. These can be buried and work along the same principle of a septic tank - bacteria breaks down solids and soils help filter out pollutants naturally. Or you can easily make your own with old trash bins or other spare household items.

If your best friend is of the finicky persuasion you can still make green strides. Cats that use litter boxes have some earth-friendlier options. First, avoid clay litters. Clay is strip-mined (not an earth-friendly endeavor) and the ingredients in clay litter include carcinogenic silica dust (not kitty or people friendly). If your cat is young, try to get them used to recycled paper litter. If they're older try switching to recycled paper over a period of time, gradually mixing out the clumping litter.

Natural Pest Control

Pets we like but the pests that sometimes come home with them are not exactly fun. Ticks can carry diseases for both animals and humans. Fleas are a nuisance that any experienced flea wrangler knows. Both of these pests can be controlled without the toxic overload. Any chemicals you use on your pet will come into contact with its surroundings, including you and your family. These chemicals can also wash off in surrounding water bodies.

Try all natural products for pest control. Mother Earth News has a great article on all natural flea control here. Green Style has a great listing of Organic and Eco Pet Supplies including flea and tick control, and shampoos. My personal favorite is the Only Natural Pet Store supplies for flea and tick control.

Chow Time

Organic treats and food aren't just healthier for pets, they are better for the environment. Organically made goods use less water and less chemicals. Imagine all of the "good dogs" around the nation or planet and just think how organic treats add up to a lot of earth-friendly pooches. Green Style's Organic & Eco Pet Supplies have an abundance of environmentally friendlier treats to choose from for your four-legged friend.

*Note: The information in this article is general advice and not meant as a substitute for personal guidance from a financial advisor, real estate professional or legal counsel. Although the author is a licensed realtor, the advice given in this article does not constitute any client contract or agreement between the author and the user. The author is not responsible for any losses, damages or claims that may result from your decisions.