How to Reduce Your Pet's Carbon Paw Print

"Wanna go outside?" These are magical words to your pup, who will jump at the chance. There's nothing better than a weekend walk on a leaf-covered hiking trail or a late-afternoon visit to the neighborhood park. But keeping these outdoor spaces as healthy and beautiful as possible might mean making a few changes to your pet-walking routine. By reducing your pet's carbon paw print and making "green" choices, you can decrease negative impacts to your environment.

Get started by making mindful choices when engaging with nature, caring for your pet outdoors and selecting eco-friendly pet care products. Every small decision counts!

How to Be Green When Going Outdoors

The trail and mountain hiking enthusiasts from the 100-year-old Green Mountain Club in Vermont know a thing or two about taking four-legged friends along for an eco-friendly nature walk. They suggest adopting the "leave no trace behind" mindset: After you've enjoyed time in nature, there shouldn't be any signs of your presence lingering among the trees or on the trails. Try these tips:

1. Stay on designated hiking trails and paths. Wandering off can damage nearby foliage or disturb resting wildlife, which could have an impact on the local ecosystems that keep the area healthy. Stepping off of designated trails is also a safety hazard. You don't want your pup to get too close to a nearby road or steep terrain with a drop-off.
   
2. Leave what you see. Sure, that fallen branch or abandoned nest might look like a great chew toy, but it's not. Look, admire and walk away. Those items are part of the natural ecosystem and should stay put. Plus, you don't want to bring home parasites or bugs found on the organic matter.
3. Pack up pet waste. Be courteous of other hikers and curious wildlife by picking up your pet's solid waste using poop bags and putting it in your backpack until you can get to a trash can. Leaving your pet's waste behind can introduce new bacteria to the ecosystem.

Before starting any outdoor adventure, look for signs or a park ranger to give you the inside scoop on any special rules or tips about the area you're visiting. There may be endangered species of plants in bloom this week to tiptoe around or a beautiful lookout point they don't want you to miss.

The Most Eco-Friendly Pet Care Supplies

Whether you're loading up your backpack for a long walk or simply stocking the pantry with pet supplies, do it with a nod to your environmentally friendly lifestyle. There are likely green alternatives to some of your usual supplies.

The American Kennel Club suggests choosing pet food and treats sold in recyclable packaging. You can also stock up on dog poop bags and cat litter made from biodegradable or compostable materials, such as corn or plant starches.

Another way to minimize your pet's carbon paw print is by choosing durable, long-lasting items, which reduces the amount of waste you put into the landfill. For example, a leather collar should endure more years of wear and tear than a nylon option. A ceramic or metal feeding bowl may last longer than a plastic dish.

Finally, when buying pet supplies, look for manufacturers using alternative power sources, such as wind or solar energy. You can also buy products made from sustainable resources, such as a bamboo-handled pet brush or a catnip toy made with hemp fabric. All plants — including bamboo, catnip and hemp — can be grown again.

You and your furry companion can double your green power by embracing an eco-friendly lifestyle together. With some planning and intentional shopping, you can extend your green life to your pet and reduce their carbon paw print. Try making one or two of these changes next time you purchase pet care products or schedule an afternoon of outdoor fun with your dog or cat. Each small green choice can make a big impact.