From DIY Toys to Natural Diets, Small Changes Make a Big Impact
By Jamie Bussin, featuring Dr. Carole Osborne DVM
In today’s world, sustainability is more than just a buzzword—it’s a lifestyle that extends into every area of our lives, including how we care for our pets. In Episode #384 of The Tonic Talk Show/Podcast Dr. Carol Osborne, a world-renowned integrative veterinarian and pioneer in anti-aging medicine for pets, shared her thoughts on environmentally responsible pet care. With a blend of traditional veterinary expertise and a strong emphasis on natural wellness, Dr. Osborne encourages pet owners to take a thoughtful approach to everything from feeding and waste disposal to grooming and toys. This is a digest of that conversation.
Poop Scooping: Not Just About Cleanliness
While poop scooping may not be legally mandatory in some parts of the country, she emphasizes that responsible waste management is an essential part of sustainable pet ownership.
Dog and cat feces are not biodegradable like cow manure. Left on the ground, pet waste contributes to environmental pollution, adding harmful bacteria and toxins to the soil and water systems. Dr. Osborne urges pet owners to use biodegradable and compostable bags specifically designed for pet waste, rather than standard plastic bags that further clog landfills.
For those looking to go a step further, she suggests flushing pet feces (without the bag) as a safe disposal method—just make sure it’s allowed by local regulations. However, she cautions against including pet waste in municipal compost collections, especially those used for yard waste like leaves, as this can contaminate the compost with dangerous pathogens.
Another important note: pet waste compost should never be used on edible plants like fruits and vegetables, due to health risks.
Feeding Pets the Natural Way
One of the most impactful changes a pet owner can make is in their animal’s diet. According to Dr. Osborne, home-cooked meals are a healthier and more sustainable alternative to commercial pet foods. Not only does this reduce reliance on heavily packaged kibble and canned food, but it also cuts down on preservatives, additives, and low-quality fillers that contribute to obesity in pets—an issue that affects around 75% of domestic animals today.
Dr. Osborne recommends a diet based on the pet’s weight and health status:
- For healthy pets: 1/3 lean protein, 1/3 complex carbohydrates (like brown rice or sweet potatoes), and 1/3 vegetables.
- For overweight pets: 50% lean protein and 50% vegetables, with carbs minimized.
Homemade diets allow owners to control the ingredients, ensuring meals are fresh, nutrient-rich, and suited to their pet’s specific needs. However, she emphasizes the importance of consulting with a veterinarian or pet nutritionist to ensure meals are nutritionally balanced. Some human foods can be dangerous for pets—like chocolate, onions, and grapes—so expert guidance is key.
The Raw Food Debate
In recent years, raw food diets for pets have become increasingly popular, marketed as a natural and wholesome option. These often come frozen in patties or sealed bags and are stored in the freezer until serving. While some brands offer flash-sterilized products to reduce bacteria, E. coli and salmonella remain real risks—for both pets and their human companions.
If pet owners choose to feed raw, Dr. Osborne recommends strict hygiene practices and keeping pet food stored separately from human food to minimize contamination. It’s not a one-size-fits-all solution, and pet owners should weigh the risks and benefits before making the switch.
Environmentally Friendly Pet Toys
Toys are another area where sustainability can easily be implemented. Instead of buying mass-produced plastic toys, Dr. Osborne suggests upcycling old clothing or household fabrics into pet toys. Items like old sweaters, socks, t-shirts, and towels can be creatively repurposed into chew toys or tug ropes. Not only is this an eco-friendly solution, but it can also be a fun, bonding activity for the whole family.
If you do purchase toys, opt for those made with recycled or biodegradable materials. And if your pet isn’t gentle with homemade toys—like my enthusiastic and destructive Aussie—choose products that are labeled as durable and eco-conscious.
Don’t forget that many animal shelters welcome donations of gently used items, including towels, bedding, and toys. Giving items a second life benefits animals in need while reducing household waste.
Eco-Friendly Bathing Practices
Bathing your pet is another opportunity to reduce environmental impact. Dr. Osborne recommends using plant-based, biodegradable shampoos that are free of harsh chemicals. Many pet shampoos on the market now highlight natural ingredients and sustainable production practices.
When it comes to water usage, be mindful not to let the water run unnecessarily. Instead, use a small tub or bucket to conserve water. These small changes, multiplied over time and across households, make a meaningful difference.
A Holistic Approach to Pet Wellness
Dr. Osborne’s approach is rooted in the idea that pet health and planetary health go hand in hand. Her integrative veterinary care—offered through the Chagrin Falls Veterinary Center in Ohio—blends conventional treatments with natural, nutrition-based practices that support longevity and vitality in pets.
Her pioneering work in pet longevity and wellness focuses on a lifestyle that supports animals as they age. It’s not just about extending lifespan, but enhancing the quality of life through mindful, responsible care.
Final Thoughts
Sustainable pet care doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. As Dr. Osborne highlights, it’s about making small, conscious decisions—from the food we serve to the waste we manage and the toys we provide.
By adopting a greener approach, pet owners can reduce their environmental footprint while improving their furry companion’s health and happiness. Whether it’s switching to homemade meals, being mindful about poop disposal, or repurposing household items into toys, every choice counts.
In the end, living sustainably with pets is not only better for the environment—it’s better for our pets and ourselves.
