Eco-Friendly Pet Care: How Independent Retailers Can Make a Difference

Sustainability has become a major topic in recent years, with more businesses and consumers recognizing the importance of taking environmentally responsible actions to protect the planet. This is particularly important for independent pet retailers, who can have a significant impact on the environment through the products they sell and the operations of their business. 

Independent pet retailers are often passionate about animals and their welfare. However, many of these retailers do not feel their own business practices are sustainable. There are many benefits to sustainability that range from protecting the environment to even increasing and improving business. In fact, 60 to 70 percent of consumers said that they are willing to pay more for sustainable packaging.

This is because customers are becoming increasingly aware of sustainability and are looking for businesses that share their values. This is especially true for pet owners, who often view their pets as members of their family and want to ensure they are using products that are safe for them and the environment. In a survey of 1,000 pet owners, about three-quarters of consumers said they are interested in learning to live more sustainably with their pets. By demonstrating a commitment to sustainability, independent pet retailers can attract and retain customers who value these principles.  

The good news is, adopting sustainable practices can be cost-effective for independent pet retailers. By reducing waste, conserving energy, and using environmentally friendly products, retailers can save money on their operating costs. Additionally, consumers are often willing to pay a premium for sustainable products, meaning that independent pet retailers may be able to charge a higher price for eco-friendly items. 

 

Great sustainable brands to highlight in your store! 

Petcurean: Petcurean believes in producing responsibly, reducing consumption, and empowering people. All producers must meet Petcurean’s strict sustainability requirements. The brand is working to increase the recyclability of its dry food packages, while also having fully recyclable canned food. Last but not least, Petcurean encourages its employees to reduce their carbon footprint by encouraging telecommuting, carpooling, and public transport. 

 

Shameless: Shameless is all about upcycling ingredients and turning them into something delicious that pets will love. Misfit food and produce gets transformed into high quality treats for pets.  

 

Jiminy’s: Jiminy’s is a great option for pet parents looking for an eco-friendly option for pets that have food sensitivities to common proteins. All Jiminy’s products are made from insect protein. Insect protein is better for the environment with better land usage, less water consumption, and almost no greenhouse gas emissions. 

 

Open Farm: Open Farm is constantly working to reduce its carbon footprint. The brand has a goal to reduce its carbon footprint by as much as 42% by 2030. Open Farm participates in the TerraCycle program. TerraCycle allows customers to easily recycle their Open Farm bags, by offering customers a free shipping label for them. 

 

MyEcoPet: American dogs create over 10 million tons of poop each year, which means a lot of poop bags can get wasted. MyEcoPet worked to produce a solution to this problem. All waste bags are created from GMO free renewable plant material.