Paws Down…Tails Up
Pet Products That Give Back
By Melanie Carden
Humanitarian goals are sometimes lost in the shuffle of our day-to-day lives. There are so many areas of need in our communities—and abroad—it can be a challenge to decide where to put our energy first. We’ve curated this list of pet-related products to help you extend your philanthropic reach. By choosing products with giveback programs, you’re making a difference on this planet. Remember, acts of generosity and kindness are cumulative. So add some of these fantastic products to your shopping list—and let’s give back together!
Calmaroos are the soothing buddies your pup or kitty needs for storms, separation, or just for cuddling. With the gentle pitter-patter of a heartbeat—your bestie will be at ease. In addition, two pounds of food are donated to shelters in the US and Canada with every purchase. Info: calmeroos.com
“I and love and you” are a fun name for a pet food brand, but these folks are serious rescue warriors! Not only do they sponsor a Rescue of the Month program, but they have also donated more than 1.2 million meals to date. They’re dog and cat food—and treats—promise happy tummies! Info: iandloveandyou.com
Ed Begley, Jr. has hundreds of films to his name. You may know him from the 80’s drama “St. Elsewhere” or, better yet, the hilarious dog-centric comedy “Best in Show.” Begley’s Natural Pet Shampoo helps support several charities such as the LA Department of Animal Services, Orangutan Republik Fund, and the Plastic Pollution Coalition. Info: begleyliving.com
Cardboard Cat Homes—founded by two MIT graduates—provides free cardboard cat homes and shelter scratchers. Even better news, you can get one on these cuties too! This super-easy to assemble cardboard kitty huts are your regal feline’s dream come true. With hideaway nooks and affordable prices, it’s an easy “yes.” Info: cardboardcathomes.com
If you follow food nutrition, you know—bone broth is powerful goodness. Brutus Broth brings that nutrition to your dog’s bowl. Plus, every month, sister founders Kim Hehir and Sue Delegan donate time, money, and product to over 25 shelters and pet-focused organizations throughout the country. They also have an ongoing partnership with Project K-9 Hero. Info: brutusbroth.com
Carrying a bag of dog poo on a long walk can be a drag. Entrepreneur Beth Herriman of Maine just made it easier. Her hands-free solution—The Dooloop—attaches to your leash—easy, breezy! She currently donates 20% of her profits to the NAACP. A great invention with good intentions. Info: thedooloop.com
Kitties thrive when they have access to safe, outdoor enclosures, often called cat patios or catios. Catio Spaces offers a bespoke approach with their custom-built enclosures. In addition, they donate 10 percent of any affiliate sales to charity and co-host the Catio Tour Seattle, which helps raise funds for PAWS (Progressive Animal Welfare Society). Info: caatiospaces.com
Harry Barker is a stylish, one-stop-shopping resource for your ritzy little rascal. From clothes to treats—they’ve got it covered. But their love extends beyond dogs. These fantastic folks create specially designed goods to help various animal charities, including marine life and veteran support dogs. For example, the adorable Honey Bee Treat Bag featured here supports—you guessed it—Planet Bee Foundation! Info: harrybarker.com
OH MY!
Eliminate cat and dog odors with Skout’s Honor. This robust line of environmentally and socially conscious pet products offers a nearly endless array of solutions. Their unique laundry boosters and litter box deodorizers get two paws up. For every bottle they sell, they donate a day’s worth of food to animals in need—over 6.5 million meals to date. Info: skoutshonor.com
