You might not think of it at first, but old pet gear is an opportunity for sustainability. Owners often throw out their old leashes, collars and dog bowls once they buy new ones. However, there are sustainable ways to upcycle this gear into something new for your pet.
Before you upcycle old pet products, wash them thoroughly with soap and water. Pet gear accumulates dirt, minerals, and bacteria that can be unhealthy for themselves and humans. Even healthy pets naturally carry germs that can transfer to their collars and leashes. Make sure to remove any rusty pieces or other potentially toxic elements, as well.
Now that you’ve thoroughly washed your old items, consider some options for repurposing them. You can use these ideas as inspiration for your own project, as well:
Beyond upcycling old pet gear, you can also practice sustainability by researching the materials of new pet items. Anything made from natural, sustainable and biodegradable materials is a better option than plastic, nylon or other synthetic fabrics. Durable items like leather are also good because they last longer, which reduces waste, but remember to upcycle them once they wear down.
Another option is to make new toys from old household items like ratty t-shirts or old bells and whistles. Turn a shirt into a new chew toy, and attach an old bell to make it more fun. Your pet won’t know the difference between store-bought and homemade, and you can live more sustainably.
