June 2008

Animal House

Eco-essentials for pampered pets and the people they own

by Jolia Sidona Allen

Whiner and Diner
Elevated dog and cat wine crate feeders handmade out of reclaimed wooden wine boxes from European, Chilean or Californian vineyards. whineranddiner.net



The Softest Toys on Earth
Treat Buster to a nontoxic, ultra-soft plush monkey or knitted chicken that’s as gentle on the planet as it is on his gums. Tan Oscar Monkey, $19. simplyfido.com



Smart Necktie Dog Collars and Leashes
These Nattie Necktie dog collars and leashes made from recycled 100 percent silk ties can be recycled again for a $5 rebate on each. Collar: $28, Leash: $33. anniessweatshop.com



The Hound Hoodie
Fashioned from recycled plastic fleece, these two in one reversible fleeces will keep your pet warm and plastic out of our landfills and oceans! $35. anniessweatshop.com



I Am Kitty, Hear Me Raw
The Honest Kitchen takes the raw food revolution pet-side, with dehydrated, raw, meat and meat-free pet food made with 100 percent organic grains, hormone- and antibiotic-free meat and non-GMO produce. Prices vary; approx. $1.70 per pound of rehydrated grub. thehonestkitchen.com



Home Sweet Hemp
Pet beds made from 100 percent organic hemp, naturally dyed covers and hypoallergenic inserts made of recycled post-consumer plastic bottles. Available in three sizes and five colors, $120-160. harrybarker.com



Bumper Stickers for Bobo
Maybe your little guy can’t hold a picket sign, but he can still spread the good green gospel by sporting a 100 percent organic cotton tee with a catchy eco-slogan like “Recycle. Adopt a Dog.” $24.99. readmypaws.com



Organic to the Bone
Protect your pet with Purrfect Play, adorable, eco-smart pet products handmade in Indiana from dye-free, organic fabrics. Creator Pam Wheelock, a walking encyclopedia of earthwise pet care (just check out her website!) says, “Why dip an organic toy in toxic dye then give it to your pet to chew on? Pets can’t even see color.” Organic catnip mouse $7.95-$8.95. purrfectplay.com



Quick Facts:

In 2006, Americans spent nearly $45 billion on their pets.
The pet industry is growing nearly twice as fast as the economy.

More than 360,000 dogs are registered on the social-networking site Dogster.com

More than 150,000 cats have pages on Catster.com

2 in 3 American households have pets; 1 in 3 has children.

69% of owners let their pets sleep in their bed.