Why Plastic Isn’t Your Friend: Your Guide to Natural, Non-Toxic Dog Essentials

Ah, the world of pet products! From squeaky toys to fluffy dog beds, the market is overflowing with plastic-packed items. While synthetic materials may seem like a convenient option for busy dog owners, I believe it's important to be mindful of the associated health risks. Let’s dig into why I avoid plastic for my pups, and why switching to natural and plant-based options are the way to go.

The Plastic Problem: Health Issues and Pollution

First off, let's talk about the elephant in the room – plastic. Sure, it’s affordable and low-maintenance, but at what cost? Plastic is derived from a cocktail of chemicals, like BPA, PVC, PFAS (forever chemicals), formaldehyde, melamine, heavy metals (such as lead, mercury, arsenic, cadmium), phthalates, and the list goes on...

If the names of these chemicals aren't scary enough, consider where they might be hiding: in your puppy's chew toys, pet food, food stored in cans and plastic containers, pet collars and leashes, food and water bowls, and more. These chemicals leach out over time into your dog's gums, stomach, and skin. This exposure can potentially lead to various health issues, including allergies, infertility, liver toxicity, kidney problems, and cancer.

Moreover, items like clothing, soft toys, dog bedding, blankets, carpets, and furniture—many of which contain plastic materials—shed tiny plastic fibers that end up in household dust. Our pets are closer to the ground and therefore at a higher risk of inhaling these microplastics. Sadly, it's no surprise that microplastics have been found in organs, like the testes of dogs.

But the problems don’t stop there. On laundry day, microplastics break free and make their way to our waterways, oceans, marine life, and finally into our food and drinking water. Yup, those squeaky toys and fluffy dog beds might be more sinister than they appear. Our furry companions deserve better, and so does our planet!

Making the Switch: More Plants, Less Plastic

Switching to natural materials might sound challenging, but it’s easier than you think. Start small – replace that old plastic chew toy for natural hemp rope, or upgrade your dog's fluffy polyester bedding to a wool-filled dog bed. And for walkie time, ditch the plastic collar for one made from vegan plant-based materials. You’ll be amazed at how simple and satisfying it is to make these changes.

Dog collars made from vegan plant-based cork leather from OHMINME.

What to Expect from Natural, Plant-Based Materials

Natural materials like vegan plant-based leather and organic hemp aren't just trendy words – they’re the future of pet products. These materials are durable, comfy, and safe for your dog. Plus, they break down naturally over time, leaving no bad stuff behind. Unlike plastic, which loves to hang around in landfills for centuries causing nothing but trouble.

A common misconception is that natural, plant-based materials aren't as durable or long-lasting as synthetic ones. In reality, well-made and properly cared-for natural materials, like hemp, are known for their strength and can withstand significant wear and tear. However, nothing is truly indestructible—even polyester and nylon will break down eventually, especially with playful puppy teeth in the mix. The key difference is that natural materials are better for our health and can safely decompose in your compost heap, while synthetics cannot. So, which would you choose?

Product Recommendations: Natural, Non-Toxic Dog Essentials

Ready to make the switch? Here are my 5 top picks to get you started:

1. Compostable Dog Poop Bags: These waste bags are made from cornstarch, are home and industrial compost certified, and break down in just 3 months—unlike traditional plastic dog poop bags that take around 1000 years to break down into harmful microplastics.

2. Hemp Rope Dog Toy: Made from natural hemp, these toys are completely non-toxic, biodegradable, and safe for dogs to chew. The hemp fibres are long-lasting, and won't break and fray unlike cotton or synthetic fibers.

3. Cork Leather Dog Collar: Made from sustainably sourced cork from Portugal paired with durable brass hardware. Cork is a tough, hypoallergenic, water-resistant, and 100% plant-based material. Perfect for pups with sensitive skin and those looking for a plastic-free and cruelty-free option.

4. Stainless Steel Pet Bowl: Although not biodegradable, stainless steel is 100% recyclable, highly durable, and easy to clean. Unlike plastic bowls that scratch easily and shed microplastics, stainless steel bowls are more hygienic and resistant to bacterial growth.

5. Wool-Filled Dog Bed: A pet bed with no plastic? Yes, please! While most dog beds use polyester filling, this one features two thick layers of pure New Zealand wool batting and includes a 100% cotton cover.

From the left: Dog bed filled with New Zealand wool batting from The Life of Riley, and natural hemp rope dog toy from Holistic Paws Hemp Co.

Tip #1: Beware of vegan alternatives to animal leather, which could be plastic materials in disguise like Polyurethane (PU) and Biothane (polyester webbing with a TPU or PVC coating). Being vegan doesn't automatically mean it's sustainable or free from toxic chemicals. If you're unsure what the product is made of, just ask the seller!

Tip #2: Recycled plastic might sound appealing but it's costly, still contains harmful chemicals, and releases tiny plastic bits into our environment.

Switching to natural products is a small change that makes a big impact. By understanding the downsides of plastic and choosing sustainable, plant-based and biodegradable alternatives, you're setting a positive example for other dog owners. Plus, it could benefit your dog’s health.