As more Australians embrace sustainable living, it’s only natural to extend those eco-friendly habits to how we care for our pets. From food and grooming to toys and waste management, every choice we make has an impact on the planet. At Woonona Petfoods, we’re passionate about helping you raise happy, healthy pets while reducing your environmental pawprint.
If you’re wondering how to get started with eco-friendly pet parenting, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide filled with practical, sustainable swaps you can start making today.
1. Choose Natural, Sustainable Pet Food
Feeding your pet sustainably starts with what’s in their bowl. Many commercial pet foods are packaged in non-recyclable plastics or contain ingredients sourced unsustainably. Switching to eco-conscious brands that prioritise natural ingredients, ethical sourcing, and minimal processing is a great first step.
Look for pet foods that are:
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Made with locally sourced ingredients
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Free from artificial additives and preservatives
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Packaged in recyclable or compostable materials
Recommended Sustainable Brands at Woonona Petfoods:
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Ivory Coat – Australian made with high-quality proteins and no artificial nasties
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Ziwi Peak – Air-dried nutrition using ethical farming and free-range meat
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Prime100 SPD – Limited-ingredient formulas, made in Australia with recyclable trays.
2. Buy in Bulk or Refill Where Possible
One simple way to cut back on packaging waste is to buy larger bags of food or use refill stations for dry goods and treats. At Woonona Petfoods, we offer bulk buying options on a range of dog biscuits, natural treats, and bird seed mixes. Refilling not only reduces packaging but can also be more cost-effective. Bring your own container and help cut down on single-use plastics.
3. Switch to Biodegradable Waste Solutions
Traditional plastic poo bags and clay-based cat litters can take hundreds of years to break down. Fortunately, there are now plenty of biodegradable alternatives that are just as effective, and far kinder to the planet.
Eco-friendly waste options:
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BioGone Dog Poo Bags – Landfill-biodegradable waste bags that are made from 50% recycled material
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Kazoo Eco Poop Bags - Leak proof, plastic free, extra strong and compostable in the home garden
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Breeders Choice Recycled Paper Cat Litter – Made from 99% recycled paper, it's highly absorbent and low dust.
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Max’s Cat Litter – Made from natural pine shavings with a clean scent and compostable formula.
4. Choose Toys and Accessories Made From Natural or Recycled Materials
From tug toys to scratching posts, your pet’s gear doesn’t have to come at an environmental cost. Many brands now offer toys made from recycled rubber, hemp, or organic cotton. These products are often more durable and safe for your pet to chew and play with.
Eco-friendly toy and accessory picks:
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Nerf Crinkle Wing Nylon Duck - Made from recyclable materials aligned with GRS
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Kazoo Dog Better Bowl - made from 100% Aussie-sourced plastic that would’ve otherwise ended up in landfill
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Superior Pet 2 in 1 Cat Fun Centre - Made from lightweight, recyclable materials
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Zippy Paws Happy Hour Crusherz Tequila - Provides your dog with endless entertainment, reusable and eco-friendly
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Furkidz Cat Toy Burlap Owl - Made from eco-friendly burlap, these toys engage your cat's senses and offer hours of playful stimulation
Also consider using old towels or T-shirts as bedding or for DIY toy projects at home!
5. Support Local and Australian-Made Products
Choosing Australian-made pet products not only reduces your carbon footprint by cutting down on transport emissions, but it also supports our economy and ensures compliance with high safety and ethical standards.
At Woonona Petfoods, we prioritise stocking local brands, including:
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Farmers Mate Raw Food – Ethically sourced fresh meals for dogs.
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The Pawfect Butcher - a leading raw pet food supplier based in the heart of the Sutherland Shire
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Advance - Advance is made in Australia and specially formulated for Australian pets
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SavourLife - A premium Australian-made brand that donates 50% of profits to rescue animals across Australia
6. Embrace Natural Grooming Products
Your pet’s shampoo and grooming supplies can contain harsh chemicals that harm both your pet’s skin and the environment once rinsed down the drain. Switch to gentle, plant-based grooming options that are biodegradable and cruelty-free.
Popular sustainable grooming picks:
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Natural Animal Solutions – Herbal pet care range made in Australia.
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Petway Petcare - Naturally based, cosmetic-grade grooming products that are biodegradable and environmentally responsible
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PAW By Blackmores - Sulphate-free and hypoallergenic grooming products, contains no artificial fragrances or colours for sensitive skin
7. Avoid Overconsumption and Waste
It’s tempting to spoil our pets with lots of toys, treats, and gear, but mindful consumption is key to reducing waste. Rotate toys to keep them exciting, repurpose items where possible, and only buy what your pet will use.
Use up opened bags of food and treats before buying new ones, and store items properly to prevent spoilage. If your pet doesn't like a product, donate it to a local shelter or rescue group.
8. Adopt, Don’t Shop
Adopting from a shelter is one of the most eco-conscious decisions you can make. Breeding facilities consume vast resources, and shelters are often overwhelmed with animals in need of homes. By adopting, you’re not only saving a life, you’re helping reduce the demand for pet production.
9. Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products for Pet Mess
Many cleaning sprays and floor wipes contain harsh chemicals that are toxic to pets and bad for waterways. Instead, choose plant-based, biodegradable options that clean effectively without harming the environment.
Our top picks:
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Urine Off – Enzyme-based formula that eliminates odours and stains safely.
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Vinegar and Baking Soda – Effective and cheap DIY cleaning solutions for hard surfaces and accidents.
Small Choices, Big Impact
Eco-friendly pet parenting doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Even one sustainable swap, like changing your kitty litter or choosing natural treats, can have a meaningful impact. Over time, those small changes add up to a more responsible, low-waste lifestyle that benefits both your pet and the planet.
Visit Woonona Petfoods for Greener Choices
At Woonona Petfoods, we’re committed to stocking environmentally friendly products that support your goals for a greener lifestyle. Whether you’re after biodegradable waste bags, organic dog treats, or eco-conscious toys, our friendly team can help you choose the right fit for your pet.
Looking to get started with sustainable pet care? Come in-store or browse online to explore our eco-friendly pet range, and let’s care for our pets and our planet together.
