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Bare Bones: Buddha Cat Habitat

PetSugar — Thu, 11 Sep 2008 10:00:05 -0700

Living in a small apartment can be a tricky task with all the accessories, toys, and overall "stuff" your pet requires. So when you have a small space, even a crate or cat tree can be a strain on your square footage. Thankfully, Square Cat Habitat has produced this totally functional cat perch that attaches right to your wall and can support up to 40 pounds. 40 pounds? That's a healthy kitty!

The Buddha Cat Habitat will set you back $100 but, made from eco-friendly bamboo, it's a clear-conscience and space saving alternative to the DIY Ikea Cat Tree I showed you awhile back. Plus the Buddha comes with your choice of non-slip insert that pulls double duty: match your already coordinated color scheme, and prevents Sassy from losing her grip!

Awesomely Eco-Tastic (and Affordable!) Cat Cave

PetSugar — Wed, 10 Sep 2008 00:30:52 -0700

When I first spotted this bed on moderncat, I immediately figured the pretty product would be way over my budget. However, imagine my surprise when I realized it costs just $70, not super cheap, but not as extravagant as some we've seen. The eco-tastic creation comes from natural banana leaves and doesn't stick out like a sore thumb in your home – makes me wish I had a kitty to pamper!

PetSugar Street Team: Turn Your Pillow Into a Dog Bed!

PetSugar — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 00:30:29 -0700

A pom pom hat on a pooch . . . ummm this is totally too cute for words! Thank you LoveRoars for alerting me to this fab Etsy find! All the sustainable gear is eco-friendly with most products, like these adoro coats, made of 100 percent fleece derived from recycled plastic!

It's hard for me to pick a fave, but if pressed the beds are hard to beat. In fact, it's an idea so ingenious, I wish I had thought of it myself! There are plenty of color options for the pillow pet bed base and blanket ($50). You may already be sighing at the additional cost of an insert but not for this one – it's meant to be filled with an old pillow. You've got a purpose for the reject and, since it smells like you, maybe it'll keep your pets off your bed, too! See the beds and more in the widget below.

Bare Bones: HOM Bird House

PetSugar — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 07:00:18 -0700

Designs of all kinds were unleashed over the weekend at the Dwell on Design Expo in LA. Although I wasn't able to make it down to SoCal for the event, I have seen a ton of interesting pics, but sadly not many that cater to our four-legged pals. Not to fear – one of the companies that has me excited to see what else they can come up with is HOM, whose designs are definitely meant to remind you of nature, but possess a cool, modern flair. While looking over their website, the first thing that caught my eye was this beautiful bird house! Not only is it a cool design, it's made from environmentally safe and non-toxic materials, as not to harm those wild birdies you'd be feeding!

There's no price, or much info listed yet, but wouldn't this be a great addition to our already expanding list of classic and modern bird feeders and houses?

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Green Habitats from Petchitecture 2008!

PetSugar — Thu, 01 May 2008 08:00:10 -0700

As you can tell from the partying pet piccys, this year's Petchitecture event was not only eco-friendly, but totally fun as well. The unique fundraiser to support the PAWS organization featured specially designed habitats that were auctioned off and all had two things in mind: pets and Mother Earth. Thankfully, that nod to the planet extended all the way to the inner workings of the event itself, which cut its mailed invites from 10,000 to 1,500 (printed on 100 percent recycled paper with soy-based ink), eliminated event programs, and had any posters printed on recycled paper as well.As for the designs, this one by William Duff Architects was my fave – with a solar device that cools the inside – perfect for your cat or small-sized pooch. It didn't stop there as the event featured tons of genius and hip designs! Check out more in the gallery when you

Petchitecture 2008 - Going Green with the Animals

PetSugar — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 08:00:29 -0700

The annual Petchitecture festivities, held here in San Francisco, brings talented architects together to design some amazing habitats for pups, kitties, and fishies that are auctioned off for charity. This year, the beloved event went green and produced not only eco-friendly and sustainable homes, but some that I would like to see produced and put on the market! For select, lucky pampered pals, their owners bid at the auction and got to take a fab home . . . home but, for others, just being at the event was winning enough! I was stoked to attend the event and got tons of snaps of adoro pups (and even a rabbit) that partied along with me! Click through the slideshow of some cute piccys from the Petchitecture Goes Green event, and stay tuned this week for more Petchitecture coverage.

On the Ball: Make a Terrarium

PetSugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 15:30:09 -0700

I think this hanging aquarium would make a fab self-contained terrarium. While my suggested version of this enclosed habitat doesn't include any animals, it's a great way to bring growing life to your office . . . or to that household where your furry family is already at capacity! Click below to begin the slideshow and get started on this DIY project.

Pampered Pals: Organic Cotton Rope Toys For Dogs and Cats!

PetSugar — Mon, 28 Apr 2008 10:15:55 -0700

Just because Earth Day's over doesn't mean that we should suddenly stop being eco-tastic! These cute mice are made of 100-percent cotton, with AZO-free dyes only, and are purrrrrfect for kitties any time of year. Even North loves his ropes but sometimes that slobber makes them look less than savory. . . . especially when toys made of this tough material do double duty keeping your pet's teeth and gums clean while promoting nondestructive chewing. But, the problem's solved with these washable toys from Harry Barker – pop them in the machine, let them air dry, and poof! They're good as new. Check out all the fun shapes for dogs and cats when you

Spotlight: Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute

PetSugar — Wed, 23 Apr 2008 14:50:15 -0700

Well, along with all the other fun animals we saw during our time in Orlando (thank you, Aquatica!), we spent one night at SeaWorld where we caught a glimpse of some killer whales! LilSugar and I watched a preview of Shamu Rocks (officially kicking off Memorial Day 200, which combined fun music with improvisational movements of two orca whales. I was happy to hear that the tanks were eco-tastically filled with recycled rainwater and learn about how much attention the organization dedicates to the research, rescue, and rehabilitation of marine wildlife. To learn how SeaWorld Orlando collaborates with the Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute (HSWRI),

The Scoop: Deadly Cat Poop for Sea Otters

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 16:30:18 -0700

While not many of you were instantly on board with composting dog poop, I thought I'd mention some important information for those feline owners. A common parasite that kitties can get is actually very deadly to wildlife, like these adoro sea otters, when cat litter is not properly disposed! Cat feces can contain Toxoplasma gondii, a parasite that commonly gets into feline systems from eating infected rodents, birds, or other small animals. When kitties later expel these parasites in their droppings — sometimes hundreds of millions at a time — each can survive in soil and water for over a year!

Although many different kinds of animals can serve as intermediate hosts for the parasites, cats are the only animals known to shed the parasite's eggs in their droppings. (In fact, this cat-parasite link is the reason pregnant women are advised against cleaning cat litter boxes.) Because of this danger, cat poop should not be flushed because it can then be carried via storm drains and sewage outflows into near-shore ocean waters. But, what about those indoor cats? Find out when you

What Do You Know About Earth Day?

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 15:45:04 -0700

We've talked a lot about the environment and the effects we (and our furry friends) have on the planet. What do you know about Earth Day history? This banner's from the very first celebration ever – do you know when it took place, why, and who started it? Test yourself in this lil green quiz!

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Create a Certified Wildlife Habitat in Your Backyard

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 13:20:42 -0700

The National Wildlife Federation offers some great tips to turn your backyard into a wildlife habitat (and then make it certified). Show your commitment to conserving wildlife and provide elements from each of the five essential areas you'll learn about when you read more. Source

To the Rescue: Composting Dog Poop?

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 07:00:28 -0700

Of course any responsible pet owner knows to pick up after a dog, and there are still plenty of signs around reminding us all the same! When trying to live a little more green, opting for those biodegradable bags is a great start, but what about composting the waste afterwards? According to the experts at Canada's Office of Urban Agriculture, there's a (fairly) simple way to begin composting dog poop in your own backyard.

Take an old garbage can and drill a dozen or so holes in the side.

Use a keyhole saw to cut out the bottom and remove it.

Dig a hole in the ground that's deep enough for the garbage can.

Toss some rocks or gravel in the hole for drainage and position the garbage can on top so it's a little higher than the soil level.

Place the lid back on top.

When you scoop some poop, put it in the hole and sprinkle in some septic starter (like Septonic) and add some water.

The waste decomposes and enters the subsoil – remember, it is not used on garden beds!

I've already shared other eco-tastic tips, but here's one that takes a bit more effort. So what do you think – is throwing a biodegradable bag in the garbage where you'll stop or would you take it to the next level?

To the Rescue: Composting Dog Poop?

I already do this!

I'm seriously considering it!

I'll definitely get started in the future!

I've got no space!

Other – I'll share in my comments below.

Bare Bones: BioBags Eco Friendly Poop Bags

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 03:00:06 -0700

When your dog does his business, where do you put the remains? Most likely you pick it up with your plastic poopie bags and toss it in the garbage like a good owner should. But all that plastic does a number on our landfills! Since today is Earth Day, I thought it would be a great time to focus on one of the most important jobs a pet parent can perform: cleaning up after your pet in an earth-friendly way.

Recently, San Francisco was the first city to put a ban on plastic bags being given out at stores and replaced them with paper or biodegradable bags since the evidence of the damage that plastic causes to the environment was overwhelming. With plastic taking over 100 years to decompose, your stash of old Target and Safeway bags will be hanging around for much longer than you (or your pet) will. Thankfully, these BioBags for Dogs ($6) are here to save the day. To see how they are helping the environment, just

Happy Eco-Tastic Earth Day!

PetSugar — Tue, 22 Apr 2008 00:30:46 -0700

To kick off today's very important holiday, I'll be doing an entire day of eco-tastic posts! Remembering our wild animal friends, especially feeding the birds, can go a long way to help keep the earth, and all the creatures that call it home, safe for years to come. A change starts with you so choosing earth-friendly cleansers and DIY toys is a nice way to show the world that you care. Many pet items nowadays are made from recycled, biodegradable, and all-natural materials like these hemp products for your doggies and kitties.

Remember, in addition to reducing, reusing, and recycling today – keep it up all year round!

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Bare Bones: Earthbath Grooming Wipes

PetSugar — Sun, 20 Apr 2008 07:00:24 -0700

If you are planning an outdoor trip this camping season, you know that you're in for a bit of a dirty (possibly smelly) pet while you're away from the luxuries of your groomer or bathtub. So how do you keep your shrub and mud loving pets clean, or at least keeping them smelling that way? As nice as taking a dip in a freshwater river can be, it's not always the best way to keep clean. Learn about this great alternative when you

Pampered Pals: Porta-Potties For Kitties

PetSugar — Thu, 17 Apr 2008 10:30:26 -0700

Many times it can seem like cat owners get the short end of the stick when it comes to traveling with pets. While some kitties like to be outside sometimes or enjoy the occasional walk, I imagine prepping for a trip with a feline who's just getting started with the frequent flier (or driver) points can be overwhelming. One of the key things to provide for a cat is a litter box but, when you're away, lugging the big home edition can be more than a little annoying. I've rounded up some small travel boxes that will do just great on the road. In addition to this biodegradable one made of recycled paper, there's another eco-tastic one made of 100-percent recycled plastic, too, so check them all out when you

On the Ball: Make Eco Dog's Eco-tastic Herbal Flea Powder

PetSugar — Wed, 09 Apr 2008 03:00:00 -0700

When I first welcomed North into my family, I knew that I wanted him to have the healthiest lifestyle possible. Whenever I can, I make his food and treats from scratch, read all the labels on his shampoos, and try not to use too many chemicals around the house. So when I saw Eco Dog at my local bookstore over the weekend, I snatched it up pretty quickly! Packed with herbal remedies to common pet problems, recipes for a yummy looking meatloaf that I'm definitely going to treat him to, and some cool DIY projects for you to make your pet's environment as fresh and clean as you can, this book was well worth the $16 price tag, and I highly recommend it. Not surprisingly, I read through the whole thing in one sitting! The info is easy to understand and makes quite a lot of sense once you think about what is in those big name products like flea collars and kibble.

One of my fave DIY projects from the book is a natural flea repellent powder that's insanely easy to make and good to keep on hand. One of the points Eco Dog tries to make is if a bunch of chemicals is supposed to kill fleas, and warns against humans coming into contact with it, how healthy can it be for your pet!? I totally get it! To see the simple flea powder recipe, just

Spring Cleaning: DIY Pet Safe Cleaners

PetSugar — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 17:30:26 -0700

Happy Spring Cleaning! By no means do we neaten up our homes only once a year, but 'tis the season to start fresh. I'm trying to live a greener lifestyle and, as an former English major, I can't even pronounce half the chemicals in several household cleansers. I've done a little research and found that many items I already have at home can do double duty as a pet safe cleaner!

Lemon Juice Lemons are sour, acidic, and generally unappealing to pets. Using a dilution, this can be added to things you don't want pets to chew (electronic cords or plants) as well as actually cleaning many surfaces on its own. The acid in lemons can neutralize hard water stains, eat away at gummy buildup and tarnish, and even remove dirt from wood floors.
White Vinegar You'll remember I suggested vinegar as a deterrent for those countertop-loving cats but d'ya know that it also works well as a cleaner by itself? If a pet has an accident on the floor, it not just controls the smell but also discourages a pup from revisiting his old marking grounds. Plus, you can use it to clean out a kitty's litter pan. Just be certain to rinse it out well afterwards and add a layer of one of our other DIY safe cleaners. What is it?

Find out when you

Heads Up! GreenDog Designs Collection Coming Soon

PetSugar — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 08:00:51 -0700

I know I've been on a total doggie clothes kick lately, but who can blame me?! There are so many new and adorable pup fashions out there to discover. And Greendog Designs is no exception. Based here in San Francisco, Greendog prides themselves on being a sustainable company that produces high quality and oh-so-cute pieces, with little waste production.
There are four lines currently being showcased on their website: Cutie Couture (featuring rare vintage fabrics), Cape Coat Collectibles (for everyday wear), Ruff Stuff (made of vintage upholstery), and Organic Manic (boasting 100 percent organic cotton and wool fabrics). I certainly hope they get their shop up and running soon, cause these pieces are so unique! To see why else I think Greendog is so cool, and to check out more of their designs, just

Feed the Birds: Recycled Birdfeeder and Corn

PetSugar — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 15:30:45 -0700

I only wish I had a tree (or backyard) to tempt many birds to come for a visit. Even North loves watching things fly by! For those lucky suburban or rural dwellers, this ecotastic twofer is completely made up of reused materials! The unique Recycled Birdfeeders ($49) are tray-hanging, platform feeders constructed with recycled parts from birdhouses and leftover asphalt roof shingles.

Simply adding corn to a platform feeder like this one will attract a different group of birds than our millet version — if you're curious why (and who)

Bare Bones: Kitty Garden

PetSugar — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 13:00:21 -0800

I've seen these edible grass kits for cats popping up everywhere these days, and I knew (like dogs), grass can helps aid in digestion. What I didn't know was that a grass garden like this one from Cat Livin ($1, is loaded with a variety of oats, wheat, rye, and barley all-in-one, and naturally helps kitty rid herself of hairballs. Growing in 4-6 days, you can reuse the stainless steel container and replacement seeds are inexpensive at $5. It makes sense if your cat doesn't go out as much as your pooch, or is strictly indoors, that you bring the grass to her – and protect your hardwood with one of the three handy placemat ($15) patterns. Plus I'd like having a nice, green patch of grass inside my apartment – especially when living in a city where grass isn't always readily accessible (or sanitary)!

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Trend Setters: The Good Life Collar

PetSugar — Mon, 25 Feb 2008 08:00:38 -0800

This double duty doggie adornment is doubly precious as each is not only a fashion statement but a functioning collar as well! Because these ties are one of a kind, you choose the pattern and color you want, and they'll pick the closest match for your design. In fact, they're all made using the fabric from high quality, preowned ties making this fabulously ecotastic and creative to boot. The Good Life Collar comes in four sizes for $30 a pop or, for $45, you send in the special tie in their prepaid envelope, and you'll get a collar that is exactly fitting for your pup's next fancy event. These precious products can be special ordered online or found in many Bay Area pet stores – a portion of all proceeds go towards organizations that benefit animals making a great global statement, too.

The Scoop: Prevent an Early End to Hibernation in the Fridge

PetSugar — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 07:00:47 -0800

With the effects of global warming causing problems around the globe, I'll admit I was a tad surprised when I read about this solution to an early end to hibernation. Because of the rising temperatures, tortoise experts in England are recommending that owners keep their pets in the fridge (!) during winter months. You see, when warm weather wakes the turtles too early – before the final cold snaps of winter – the creatures are at risk when temperatures drop again. If the animals' body temps rise above around 41 degrees Celsius, the reptiles will begin digesting food and will die when it gets cold again. In response to this growing issue, Joy Bloor, owner of one of England's largest tortoise sanctuaries says that "if you open the door every day they should get enough air . . . but you shouldn't go away on holiday and leave them."

Hmm, I'm pretty neurotic about my fridge – I don't even like smelly food or leftovers to go in there, and I can't possibly imagine keeping a pet in there. Am I being unreasonable here? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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Exclusive PetSugar Discount Alert! Olive Green Dog

PetSugar — Wed, 23 Jan 2008 00:30:14 -0800

As the name hints Olive - Green Goods for Modern Dogs stocks some of the most eco-tastic pet gear around. Olive handpicks products made from recycled or reclaimed stock and renewable or organic materials as well as selling their own natural, nontoxic items in reduced and recycled packaging. Because their online shop strongly supports local businesses, you'll see many items you won't spot everyday in every shop alongside earth-friendly mainstays like Planet Dog. From boiled wool Cheerful Pet toys to eazy bean beds, their merchandise comes from all over and is sure to please even the pickiest four-legged green consumer.

If you're not excited yet, now (through the end of February) Olive is offering an exclusive discount to PetSugar readers like you! Just use code OLIVESUGAR at checkout (all caps) to receive 15% off anything you buy! I'll be starting my Valentine's Day gift guide when February starts next week, but as they suggest "Say your RED in GREEN" and consider giving back and giving forward with an earth-friendly product!

This (New) Home: Sustainable Pet Design

PetSugar — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 16:00:32 -0800

Perfect for an ecotastically-pampered pup, this (new) home is topped with a top-of-the-line garden of its very own! Each of the Greenrrroof animal houses are carefully created with a special vertical extension to hold plants and flowers. This roof system can provide insulation against chilly temps and annoying sounds as pup tries to sleep as well as filtering runoff water and dust. These sustainable pet designs attract butterflies along with those pet owners that want to have the best (dog) house on the block. The concept homes start at $1,000 and range up to $6,000, so check them out close up when you

Bare Bones: Kitty Litter Types

PetSugar — Fri, 16 Nov 2007 11:30:28 -0800

Choosing kitty litter is a tough decision! There are so many options out there, and changing litter types can upset your cat and cause naughty "elimination" behaviors. Many users shy away from the traditional clay or silica gel varieties which can contain carcinogens and burden landfills, and choose more eco-tastic alternatives. To see what makes up some earth friendly alternatives,

Eco-tastic Essentials: Wooley Bully Mousey

PetSugar — Fri, 26 Oct 2007 12:08:40 -0700

Bat, pounce, and bite. Then, wash and repeat. Let your kitty play cat and mouse with this minimalist toy made out of natural sheep's wool. Wooley Bully Naturals come in a variety of natural wool colors and shades for around $5 each. After your cat roughs this mouse up, simply put the toy in a nylon stocking, tie it closed, and pop it in the washing machine. Poof, it's good as new!

Recap our week of Eco-tastic Essentials, and share your own in the comments below.

Eco-tastic Essentials: Cat Tree

PetSugar — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 09:05:20 -0700

Made from 100 percent corrugated cardboard (with at least 35 percent recycled content), this "multi-functional piece of feline furniture" even gets its flashy colors using all non-toxic materials. The potential match-up between cardboard and cat claws does a skeptic make, yet the design firm promises it is extremely sturdy and can be sanded to get rid of any pesky scratch marks. Handmade by San Francisco-based Everyday Studio, the three aptly-named models: "Claw," "Pounce," and "Nap" are available at Branch for $84 and up.

If you get it home and your cat takes no interest, it can double as a seat or an end table – which makes me hope that the corrugated cardboard is rather strong indeed.

Eco-tastic Essentials: RecycleBALL and RecycleBONE

PetSugar — Wed, 24 Oct 2007 13:30:05 -0700

Talk about a good business practice: PlanetDog uses all the leftover scraps and seconds from their super popular Orbee-Tuff products to create these sleek alter-eco toys. The remnants that would otherwise be wasted are regrinded to produce these 100 percent recycled playthings. Add the trademark peppermint scent (and I am assuming flavor!) to get a great freshener for puppy breath. Good for the pets and good for the environment, quite appropriate for a company named Planet Dog – pick up the RecycleBall or RecycleBone for $10.00 a piece.

Recycle. Reuse. Rewoof.

Eco-tastic Essentials: Biodegradable Bags

PetSugar — Tue, 23 Oct 2007 03:05:02 -0700

You'll be a responsible dog owner and a responsible global citizen when you scoop the poop with 100 percent biodegradable bags. These bags decompose in a controlled composting environment in 10-45 days along with dog's waste, leaving no harmful residues behind. While you're at it, add a Hugo Designer bag holder (seen in the bottom right) to your order – they come in multicolored bone and dog shapes to clip onto a leash, purse, or belt loop.

Cat owners, fear not, Poopbags.com also offers biodegradable, non-allergenic cat pan liners as well!

Eco-tastic Essentials: Bella Bed and Binky

PetSugar — Mon, 22 Oct 2007 16:00:52 -0700

With all those products on the market, it can be a tad overwhelming to the average consumer! This week, I am going to share environmentally-friendly alternatives to pet essentials that will leave others green with envy.

First up in this five product eco-tastic series, is a hypoallergenic pet bed. The Bella Bed comes in four sizes and a beautiful range of 28 color combinations. Stuffed with hi-loft fiberfill made from recycled materials and covered with Eco2 Recycled cotton, each bed is handcrafted for a unique appearance. Its cozy cave-like shape conforms to your pet's body and then holds its shape to offer great support as he rests. My fave feature, however, is the optional, coordinating Bella Binky blanket (try saying that ten times fast) that can be warmed in the dryer or microwave to make your pet extra feel snuggly.